My role is to help ensure that the leaders and staff of IAFR are continually moving towards health and effectiveness as they work towards carrying out the mission of IAFR. In addition, I serve as a member of the executive team and help shape organizational culture.

Question: Why do you believe member care matters?

I believe member care is important because it encourages staff to engage in healthy rhythms so that they can have a successful longevity in the work that God has called them to do. By promoting personal health - emotionally, spiritually, relationally, and physically, member care can benefit missionaries in areas of loneliness, stress management, ministry transition, grief and loss, support for singles/marriages/families, etc.

Our teammates often serve in locations far away from what they once called home. When hardships and crises occur, they may have to face these challenges alone due to having limited access to resources and support. Member care provides a safe place for vulnerable sharing about their personal struggles.

Question: What role does member care and personal health play in building healthy teams?

Healthy team members are a prerequisite for building healthy teams. Personal health challenges can lead to morale issues for the entire team. When individual members are not feeling well, it may reduce their level of engagement and motivation. By balancing support and challenge, team members can benefit from having access to member care that helps ensure team wellness.

Question: What are some aspects that identify a team as healthy?

Cohesion. Healthy teams are more likely to be concerned for both individual and team wellness. Teammates feel a sense of belonging to the group. They make intentional efforts to get to know, understand, and support each other to the best of their ability. As new team members join, they are welcoming and eager to help them with their transition.

Commitment. Healthy teams are more likely to be committed to each other and to the team’s success. Each member makes every effort to be fully present and on time for their daily responsibilities. Teammates regularly take time to encourage and pray for each other.

Communication. Healthy teams are more likely to share the responsibility for creating a positive work environment. Each member has a clearly defined role and is given the opportunity to contribute their strengths. Teammates work collaboratively towards achieving their goals and celebrate their progress along the way.

Productivity. Healthy teams are more likely to make clear ministry strategies and make steady progress towards achieving their team goals. Teammates seek to steward their time and energy well and take ownership of their individual work responsibilities.

Morale. When teams are healthy, they are more likely to be positive about their work and organization. If conflict arises, teammates seek to understand each other’s point of view and work out their differences in a redemptive manner.

Innovation. When teams are healthy, they are more likely to think clearly and creatively. This includes developing innovative solutions for complex problems which allows them to reach their objectives more efficiently.

Question: What are a couple of the most important practical ways to build and maintain healthy teams?

Provide training and resources such as a personality assessment, conflict resolution strategies, and team building activities.