30seconds with Erin Monroe Wesley

Forum 35 was formed in 1993 to inspire young professionals to get involved with philanthropy and to help its members develop into more effective leaders.

Baton Rouge has changed substantially in 16 years, as has Forum 35. We asked current president Erin Monroe Wesley: Are more changes in store?

After seeing the results of the latest Forum 35 survey, does Forum 35 have new goals, a new direction?

(The survey found) 75.7% of those who responded are involved in Forum 35 for volunteer and service opportunities. This commitment to service is consistent with the core of our mission. This feedback … will be used by the board of directors to develop a long-term strategic plan to guide the organization’s direction for years to come.

Any surprises?

When Forum 35 conducted its membership survey in October 2008, 42.2% of the membership was undecided when asked how long they plan to live in Baton Rouge. That number has drastically declined to 16.8% based on our most recent survey results—69.4% of our members plan to live in Baton Rouge forever, or do not have any plans to leave at this time.

Any shifts in membership numbers?

Forum 35 has roughly 700 members. At the time of our October 2008 survey, we had approximately 760. Forum 35 has discovered, like many other community-based organizations, that our corporate partners are spending less in the community in light of the current economy.

Almost half (48.1%) of the members surveyed said they want Forum 35 to take official positions on community issues. Do you envision Forum 35—within the boundaries of its nonprofit status—playing a more active role in politics and public policy in the future?

Historically, Forum 35 has not played an active role in political engagement and public advocacy. We will utilize these results along with our membership’s desire for service and volunteerism to determine how Forum 35 needs to evolve to ensure it represents the wants and needs of its membership.

What can Forum 35 do in the second half of this year to remain vital to members?

Forum 35 will relaunch its We Are BR campaign in the fall. In visiting Richmond, Va., during the Baton Rouge Area Chamber and City of Baton Rouge canvass trip, Forum 35 recognized the need to bring community leaders, young professionals and concerned citizens together in Baton Rouge …