Values and Goals concept

Hi all, to summarise from Monday's meeting for members who could not attend, the thoughts behind a shared vision, values and goals.

We currently have 197 members, who each have a vision of themselves and an unspoken, unwritten values, many of which we all share. As individuals, we make decisions based on our vision, values and goals, be it dietary, the races we choose to run, or our training schedule, etc.

The point is that all our visions vary, for example, it could involve undertaking the Couch to 5K, a PB at 10K, a Marathon, a Triathlon, etc. The idea is that we focus on developing a shared vision and values for the club as a whole, to add to the constitution, that becomes the basis of joined-up, informed decisions. It is important that, for this to succeed, we need our values to be championed by all at the club.

To take this idea forward, we have one member who has already put himself forward as he has experience with the benefits of this process, and we are asking for other members to join a working group. We would encourage a wide range of the membership, be it new to the club, a long-standing member, or in favour of or against the proposals, all views are welcome.

The initial meeting will be to set out the terms of reference, then ideas will be sought. The membership will be kept informed at every opportunity, and no final decision will be made without the membership's consent.

To help, extracts from England Athletics documentation have been shared below:

What are the benefits of having a shared vision?

• gives clarity on roles and responsibilities

• focuses on planning

• supports decision making

• shapes the club culture

• defines the leadership ethos

Example of club visions - “To make athletics accessible and enjoyable for all who contribute and compete.  We take your ambitions from today to realise your dreams of tomorrow” – Corby Athletics Club, A running club for all. 

Example of a club’s values:

• We support and encourage each other to achieve our goals in a healthy, positive way, empowering runners to challenge themselves.

• We celebrate and value all individual and team achievements and love to cheer each other on in person, online, at the club and at events.

• We are family: we are there for each other through good and bad times, offering a helping hand and encouraging words.

• We are passionate about running and making club sessions fun and motivational. Organised runs include a mix of speed, hills and distance, as well as varying routes with road and trail to keep things interesting.

• We learn and grow through our shared experience and leave no runner behind. We inspire each other. – Orchard Eagles Running Club

If you are interested in participating, please contact chairman@burndenroadrunners.co.uk