Hello members. This is, what I hope to be, the last time that I’ll be addressing the group regarding the annual fee. I would first like to thank those of you that supported me, explained some of the behind the scenes work, or those of you that at least kept an open mind regarding everyone’s feelings who contributed to the many forums involved. I’ll try responding to everything that was on both the FB and the IJB forums.

I’m truly sorry to those of you that I startled or surprised regarding the annual fee. I’ve been trying to prepare you for this. Perhaps you aren’t receiving the newsletters or the broadcast messages I’ve sent because I’ve been mentioning the financial difficulties for two years. I’m very sad that the most recent newsletter, with so many positives regarding the IJB mission, has turned into something so ugly.

Frankly, it is difficult even knowing how to respond because many issues were brought up. Initially it was to have the free website, then the financials were brought into it, then how I’m not supportive, and then the litany of insults. If it weren’t about me it would be comical.

It’s Just Benign is not like other nonprofits. For starters, you can always reach me. In fact, I encourage that. You have my email, my phone number, and even my address. Many of you have already told me that other brain tumor nonprofits don’t care about the individual. They help groups. IJB, on the other hand, has started specific groups, reached out to specific physicians, etc. to help you. I’ve also included you in the financial decisions, by asking you how I should use donations. In addition, I invited you to shape It’s Just Benign by asking you to sit on the board. You have never been powerless in any decisions made and you’ve had ample opportunity to help create a nonprofit that you admire.

It’s Just Benign needs you and the board wants to help you. However, this disturbing behavior won’t be tolerated again. The membership doesn’t know the work involved in running IJB. The IRS isn’t even interested in IJB because there is too little money. Please start thinking & asking questions before you give demands and critique various aspects. Your comments on the forums were so off base compared to reality. Look at the mission statement before deciding if a forum is appropriate. It’s Just Benign is not here for you to discuss annual dues. It’s here for you to connect over your brain tumor experience and not how IJB is run. This decision was voted on and annual dues are needed if you want IJB to thrive. There is no room for your critiques, unless you play a part in the leadership role. Unfortunately, no one has taken advantage of my offers. Dues are needed if you want change to happen regarding benign brain tumor education and awareness. There are other ways to help if you really can’t contribute to the dues,

On the IJB forum I mentioned that an effective way for change is to email me or call me. Only one person called me to discuss her issues. Also, I listed the expenses. So you should now have an understanding where the money goes. In addition, I messaged a member to discuss her needs regarding the financials. She never replied to me. Also, a member wrote about the IJB tee-shirts. She mentioned that IJB didn’t have the money and that a purchase was made without the funds. That is entirely incorrect and I hope going forward that you all hold yourself accountable and do not assume you know anything about running It’s Just Benign.

I think I replied to most of the forums. I hope that you will support It’s Just Benign and we can count on your support in February.

Please message or call me with any concerns going forward. I hope that you read this thoroughly and can understand my viewpoints. Have a Happy and Healthy 2012!

Thank you.

Sincerely,

Beth F. Rosenthal
Founder & Survivor
732-371-5338