Why should you sign up to our new database?
Before the holidays we sent out an email asking our long-term members (those that joined more than one year ago) to sign up for our new database Better Impact (BI). This generated questions and some concerns. I will try to answer some of the questions and address concerns in this blog.
To be clear upfront, you do not need to re-join, but rather transfer your information from the old system to the new database.
Why the change?
When we began and were a much smaller organization we collected membership information via google forms and a spreadsheet, which worked at the time, but was very manual and time-consuming, and also not as secure as our current database. We have also applied to become a charitable organization and have to meet certain requirements, including data protection. The reason for the change is to protect you while allowing us to grow and become stronger as an organization.
Why can’t we just transfer the data for you?
We need your consent to collect this information and you give consent by signing up for Better Impact. Some of those who joined us since MSTH was formed in 2016 may no longer be active with our organization and we can’t assume they want to be members without asking them. Lives change and circumstances change and we want to respect that.
Why is so much information collected?
A database has the advantage of allowing us to search the information. For example, if we want to contact everyone who wants to be active as an advocate, could help in fundraising or policy development, or lives in a certain province or city it is much easier to do that with a database like BI. Some of the information about your circumstance, skills, and interests is also optional but appreciated for us to connect with you if necessary.
Why do I need to give my address and phone number?
The most important reason is to keep you and everyone else safe. We have groups where people share deeply personal and sensitive information and we need to know who our members are. We are only open to people living in Canada and we need to know where you live. Lastly, not everyone lets us know when their email or phone number changes. Having multiple ways to reach you still allows us to get in touch.
What are the benefits and drawbacks of Better Impact over our previous form and spreadsheet?
Benefits:
It is a much safer and better way to protect your privacy.
You can control your information and update it.
It is easier and less time-consuming for our staff and volunteers.
It allows you to access information and documents we store on BI.
It allows Moms Stop The Harm to grow.
Drawbacks
You have to enter your information again.
Some people find it difficult and confusing.
We may lose members in the transition.
The old system was free and BI has an annual cost we need to budget for.
If the system does not fully meet our needs in the future we would need to switch.
If I do not sign up for Better Impact are you still a member?
To continue to enjoy full membership you must sign up for Better Impact. To be in our private Facebook groups, join a committee and be elected to the board you need to sign up as a member through BI. There are no plans to remove anyone who signed up under the old system from private Facebook groups an individual belongs to, however, to join new or additional groups you need to register in the BI system. You do not need to be a member to receive the newsletter or to join a Holding Hope and Healing Heart group as a participant.
What do I do if I need help or have comments?
If you need help joining Better Impact or you have questions or comments please get in touch via our contact us form.
Are there more changes coming?
Yes, there are. We currently have network members, who join mostly for mutual support, and advocacy members who are also active in their region or nationally. With our new bylaws and the charitable application, we need a third membership class, a voting member category. Voting members will be able to vote at our AGM, elect the board and help us set our strategic direction. All charitable organizations must have voting members who renew their membership annually. We will share more information on becoming a voting member in the new year.
Lastly, once you join BI - you will receive an auto-generated welcome email with some information. Please check your junk/spam box if you do not receive this information.
Make sure to keep your username and password in a safe place and do not give this information out to anyone. Moms Stop The Harm would never ask that of you.
In closing I want to thank you for joining us, staying with us, working with us and helping us grow. That growth gives us strengths but if fraught with challenges and often painful, but it will make us strong!
Petra Schulz, Board Chair and Co-founder