Hi, Everyone..
I was dropping by to see how the board is doing, and I saw we had another recent conversation about CLs. In an attempt to put it to rest, I wanted to fill you in some of the things about CLs, why we have them, etc.
As you probably know, CLs are volunteers. The basic requirements of being a CL, or Community Leader, are a love for the board/community, and experience and knowledge of the topic. CLs are not required to post every day, every other day, or even every third day. In addition to their volunteer positions here, they lead busy lives, and any CL in a parenting board means they're a parent, so in this case, any CLs this board will have are busy teen moms. That alone should mean we need to cut them some slack, as we all go through times where we're unable to focus on a message board -- sick kids, busy workday, illness, you name it.
In fact, many boards run along quite nicely without any CLs at all. A consistent community that follows our Terms of Service (or TOS) doesn't necessarily need a CL as you are all able to use the "Report a Violation" (or RAV) button on any post that possibly violates TOS, and you keep your conversations moving along quite nicely. Having a CL that's here every day or no CL at all won't change that. That's really important to remember. CLs are valuable, but a board can survive successfully without them.
If you do have an issue with the board, you are welcome to write your Cmod, anytime, at pboards@mail.ivillage.com. Otherwise, please keep any negative discussion of specific members off the board. It's a matter of being respectful towards each other, and it's also against TOS to disrupt the board or attack someone, so while this last thread didn't get to that point, it's something to keep in mind. We don't discuss individual situations with anyone other than that person, because we believe in privacy for everyone, but if there is something that needs to be reviewed, you can make us aware.
To keep the board welcoming, safe and friendly for everyone, including our CLs, use the email address above next time there's a question. Remember, CLs are people too! ;)
Donna
