Preparation for a “Bus” Trip
In this article we will look at comparisons from Jim Collins book “Good to Great ,” as it relates to how some organizations make a quantum leap from being average to being great. How do they do this, you might ask? One of Jim’s analogies is that of the bus and making sure the right people are getting on the bus and that they are in their correct seats.
Our program is similar: we need people (we need all of you!) to assist with the Child ID Program. People have to want to get on the bus and be willing to find a place that best matches their strengths. To be effective, the bus needs to have people who understand where we are going, what our objective is, and how we are going to achieve our goals.
Of course, all of this is about the children in our communities; their well being and safety are paramount. It is also about educating the parents and the children on the importance of safety and awareness of their surroundings. Our program provides Identification Cards, CDs, as well as safety tips for teens and coloring books for the younger kids. For the upcoming year, our goal is to provide educational tools to help 100,000+ children remain safe and to prevent anything from happening to them. While this number may seem high, I know we can do it; however, we cannot do it alone. We need the help of you; our brothers, sisters, family and friends on this important community service program.
Are you willing to get on the bus and take a seat where needed? Let’s make this good program a great one!
It is up to each member of the craft to make sure they have attended one training session, or schedule a training session for your local lodge. Just think about the joy we can all share by helping to make our world a little safer for our children. What if you were the one who provided important information to a child that would make them much more aware of their own environment to keep them safe? On the flip side, what if a child participating in our program was found as a result of critical data we supplied law enforcement through the Amber Alert System to bring that child home? You cannot put a price tag on such things, but know that everyone of you who participates can make a difference in the lives of others. As said many times by one of our dedicated Brother’s, Jim Meek, “although free, this program could become priceless.”
Thank you Most Worshipful Grand Master Edward R. Gilbert for the opportunity to drive the “bus.”
Brothers, please step up to the plate and support this program through participation. Remember your continued financial support through donations to the Masonic Brotherhood Fund, earmarked for the NY Masonic Child ID Program remains the backbone of this program. God Bless us all.
1Collins, Jim. Good to Great: Why Some Companiew Make a Leap and Others Don't, HarperCollins Publishers, Inc., 2001
