GNW Region Message - June 2011

Hello GNW Region Members,

For many of you this is the last month your chapter will be having a meeting, and for some of you, there is one more meeting left in the ARMA year. Whichever fits at the time you read this message, I hope your ARMA year has been successful and educational. I would like to take a minute to thank all the volunteers who have given their time over the past year to make each of our GNW chapters so great! From the board members, to the webmasters, to the person who sits at the registration table and greets everyone with a smile, everyone has made a contribution to the success of your chapter over the year. Without these individuals we wouldn’t have the educational content, the food and beverages, the informational newsletters and webpages, etc. So please at your next meeting, be sure to thank them or if you aren’t able to get to the meeting, send them an email.

And of course we also want to include all of YOU, the members, in that thank YOU as well. Your attendance at meetings, reading the newsletter, visiting the website, sharing resources also contribute greatly to the success of your chapter. Support in any way, regardless if it’s many hours or just a few is always appreciated and welcome.

Now is the time when many boards are filling positions or committees need volunteers. I highly recommend seeking out a board member and asking them what needs to be done. Everyone has some talents and you’d be amazed by what you can help with. Maybe you’re new to the profession, volunteer to work at the registration table, it’s a great way to meet everyone! Been around for a few years, bring that expertise to a panel or tap into your resources for speaker ideas. I started as newsletter editor for the Bellevue/Eastside Chapter many years ago and over the years have been programs chair, fill in secretary, vice president and president and am now going into my 2nd term as Region Coordinator. I never expected to be doing this when I started out as newsletter editor many years ago! But each experience has enriched my life, both professionally and personally in some way. I’m not going to give the standard it only takes about an hour a week, it can sometimes be more, but what I have gained in support and resources far outweighs the number of hours spent. Plus the satisfaction of fulfilling a goal, finishing out the year, and bringing quality educational programs to members is a great feeling.

Another great way to get involved is to attend the Leadership Conference this year. Most members think Leadership is just for board members, but anyone is welcome and encouraged to attend. ARMA International provides a wonderful speaker and this year we have Dale Mask. I’ve heard Dale many times and each time I learn something new. Leadership will be hosted by the Oregon Chapter this year and is being held in Portland in June. A lovely time to be in Portland! Please do consider joining us.

Thank you all again for making this year GREAT for the Great Northwest Region of ARMA!

Sincerely

Jennifer Winkler

GNW Region Coordinator