Dear Treasured Bhumi Folk,
Bhumisparsha is in need of a treasurer! The Mission Circle (currently consisting of Brenda Collins, Leigh Rosenberg, Lisa Hoff and Transitional General Coordinator, Eric Busse) are writing to see if you have the interest/capacity to offer support in this much needed volunteer role.
Background: Thus far Lama Rod has held this role, but we need to replace him for a few different reasons. One is a desire to adopt best practices in limiting potential abuses of power by having one of your Lamas as a treasurer. We also need someone who has greater capacity to be more hands-on in helping us cultivate a sustainable financial future for our community.
Details: One of the most important roles the treasurer will embody is as an “Administrator” on our Open Collective platform where all of Bhumisparsha’s finances now live. Our fiscal hosting relationship with Open Collective Foundation (OCF) reduces the administrative burden around most financial processes (i.e. managing how people get paid, transparency, processing donations, tax preparations, etc.). However, as an emerging collective we need someone who is willing to assist by monitoring the account, contributing to regular reporting processes to the community, providing financial wisdom as opportunities arise, and supporting the broad sustainability of our shared resources as a community. The treasurer will also become part of the Mission Circle and participate in monthly Mission Circle meetings.
Beyond that, the nuances and responsibilities of this role will be clarified in collaboration with the Mission Circle and Eric Busse. Additional aspects of this role may include:
Working alongside Eric to make sure contractors get paid in a timely manner.
Collaborating in the creation of project-specific and yearly budgets
Advising the Mission Circle through the process of conducting an external audit with an outside accountant
Generating financial reports we can share with the larger community
Lending expertise and support around fundraising processes
Alongside the administrative support we receive as an OCF Collective, our intention in the near term is to hire an accountant to conduct an audit and to explore the viability of regular bookkeeping services. So, the person who fills this role does not necessarily need to have professional bookkeeping experience. However, prior experience as a treasurer or other leadership experiences in the realms of strategic development, resource management etc., are valued. This role would be suitable to someone who has a disposition toward attention to details and a passion for the art of administration. Ideally, we would like someone with some experience in financial reporting processes as well as planning and tracking budgets. Importantly, this role is for someone who feels excited about lending their wisdom and experience in service to the Bhumi community and our shared vision of personal awakening and collective liberation. You will be supported by the staff and existing volunteers within the organization. If you are considering applying for the role but need more info or have questions, please reach out to Eric Busse at eric@bhumisparsha.org and he will connect with you. Ready to volunteer as Bhumisparsha’s new treasurer? Please send an email communicating your interest to info@bhumisparsha.org by Wednesday, April 6th.
In love and Sangha,
The Mission Circle
(Image: “Mural of Vajrasattva - Dorje Sempa - with Mexican Iconography”, flickr.com)