Q: What is WSDF?
A: WSDF is The Wisconsin School for the Deaf, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization established in 2001. WSDF is managed by board members known as Board of Directors. It does not have a membership base. WSDF depends chiefly on donations and fundraisers to provide grants and scholarships.
Q: What do WSDF board members do?
A: Board members meet, set goals, manage finance, award grants and scholarships based on application criteria, plan fundraisers, take up special projects, and/or make decisions in WSDF’s best interest. Fundraisers usually include WSD’s Charter Day Campaign of Giving, raffle sales, Pig Roast, and fall event.
Q: How often do board members meet?
A: Board members meet five times a year: January, March, May, September, and November, and meetings usually take place at WSD. Alternating months are for committee meetings, which could be in-person or through videoconference. Board members often fundraise during summer months.
Q: Do board members get paid in any way?
A: No, all Board positions are voluntary, and there is no membership fee to join. Board members often make a donation to WSDF.
Q: Are board members limited to Deaf/Hard of Hearing people?
A: No, WSDSF’s bylaws states that the board must be at least 51% Deaf/Hard of Hearing. We welcome anyone who has a passion for the cause, enthusiasm, and excitement for helping in a variety of ways combined with concrete preparation and action.
Q: Do board members have to be from the Delavan area?
A: No. However, meetings activities and fundraisers mostly take place are in the Delavan area.
Q: What if I cannot make a board commitment, but I would like to get involved?
A: Fantastic! Let us know when you can help at one of our events! You are always welcome to make a donation to WSDF, too.
Q: Yes, I am interested in serving on WSDF Board. What should I do next?
A: Great! Contact Joel Mankowski, WSDF President, for more information. His email address is deafcopper@gmail.com.