For the last couple of years, the Board of Directors of the Club has been working hard on developing a strategic plan that will help us set the direction of the Club for the next several years. This process helped us to clarify the Club’s Mission, Vision, and Values. I want to thank all that were involved in the process and I thought it was important to share these guiding principles with you.
A Mission Statement is an organization’s declaration of its core purpose and focus. Why do we exist? Here is the SCR Mission Statement - The Space Coast Runners Club is a non-profit organization that promotes running and competitive events for the benefit of all. You should note that it’s not all about racing, although racing is an important part of what we do. We want to promote and encourage running of all types…fun runs, fitness runs, casual runs, long runs, short runs, trail runs, street runs, runs and races of all types.
A Vision Statement is an organization’s road map, defining where the organization wants to go. SCR’s Vision is that every person in Brevard County will have the opportunity to discover running and be part of the running community. We are an all-inclusive running club. We welcome new runners, seasoned runners, fast runners, slow runners, serious runners, casual runners, and all of those in between.
An organization’s statement of Values declares the culture and beliefs that drive the group. We had some fun with this one and came up with an acronym that is easy to remember and will do a good job of communicating what is important to the club. The acronym that defines our Club’s Values is SUCCEED. Here is how the acronym comes together, along with a brief comment on each.
S – Safety for all runners. This is the most important value of the Club and should be the most important thing for all runners to keep in mind. When training on the road, make sure you are running on the proper side (facing oncoming traffic) and paying attention to your surroundings. It’s ok to run 2 or three abreast when no traffic is coming, but you should go move to single file when cars or bikes are approaching. Run with a friend or make sure that someone knows where you will be. Wear clothes and gear that allow you to be seen. These are only a few of the safety rules you need to follow. Here is a more complete list from the Road Runners Club of America, https://www.rrca.org/education/rrca-general-running-safety-tips
U - United in serving our running community. The Club is here for you. We are here to help and encourage each other. Runners are generally very happy to share their wisdom, knowledge, experiences, and time.
C – Charity. We want to support other non-profits that are connected to the running community. As a club, we regularly donate to other organizations…we hope you will too.
C – Camaraderie with members, volunteers, sponsors, and community. One of the main reasons I run is for the social benefits (it certainly isn’t because I’m fast!). Most of my friends are runners. I’ll bet it’s the same for you. It’s easy to get along with our friends. It’s also important to get along with others in the running community. Say thank you to volunteers that make your events happen. Thank the sponsors that provide the funds for an event to occur. And work to get along with others in the community. Wave at drivers when they yield to you…and try to refrain from other hand signals when they don’t! Don’t leave trash in the communities you pass through. Common sense should rule here. Can’t we all just get along?
E – Ethical, financial, and organization stability. Each member of the Board pledges to act in an ethical manner when dealing with club issues; to be good financial stewards of club resources; and to work keep the Club going for another 40 years. (For those who don’t know, 2018 marked the 40th anniversary of Space Coast Runners!)
E – Enjoyable atmosphere for all. This one is easy. We should all do what we can to make sure our training runs, races, socials, and other events are fun.
D – Diversity in our sport. We are a Club for everyone. Age, Race, Sex, Religion, Politics, Size, Speed (or lack of), we are a club open to all people and ideas.
I hope this helps give you a better idea of what the Club is all about and where the current Board hopes we will go in the future. You are a part of it. Your input, comments, criticism, praise, and especially your help are all welcome and appreciated.
