Avery asked committee members if they would like to serve on the grant sub-committee that will work out details surrounding Trust funding. The grant process sub-committee will then report back to the Trust committee.

Avery emphasized the grants sub-committee reports will lead to group discussion in the larger committee.

"When we come back to the [Trust] committee, it will not be simply for a rubber stamp," she said.

Sub-committees may also be formed from the larger Trust committee to tackle issues relating to "programs, special events and women's issues, policy and outreach."

Twenty-five members of the 27-person committee were present at yesterday's meeting held on the second floor of Dudley House.

Committee members sat in a large circle and chatted as Avery solicited their opinions about items on the meeting's agenda.

Issues of eligibility--whether the Trust should fund individual applicants, what kind of events they should give money to, and the scope of programs they will consider for funding--were also discussed.