From the Editor

You give but little when you give of your possessions.  It is when you give of yourself that you truly give.  ~Kahlil Gibran

April is National Volunteer Appreciation Month and according to Volunteer Canada this is a time to celebrate those who dedicate their time to be stewards and leaders of our community through volunteerism.

Thanks to Oksana Buhel, CAE, Sandra Moniz, CMP and Randi Glass, CMP for contributing articles on this topic.

So, why do people volunteer?

Let’s be honest. Volunteering is self-serving and at its core is the number one reason the majority of us join up. In other words, there are personal and business benefits associated with being a volunteer whether it is to attract new clients, a new employer or perhaps even generate a mentoring relationship. Additionally, volunteers can develop new skills that may benefit them in their personal and professional growth.

The second reason people volunteer is to create, develop and nurture relationships. Think about the connections you make through volunteering. Like joining a church choir or a wine appreciation club, relationships are what make volunteers keep coming back for more.

Altruism is the third reason volunteers make the commitment. Whether it’s because they have passion for a cause or they simply just want to give back, this represents the highest level of motivation.

 

Volunteers don’t get paid, not because they’re worthless, but because they’re priceless.  ~Sherry Anderson

 

Thanks to all CSAE Trillium Chapter volunteers who do what they do. We are a better chapter because of them.

The April issue has some excellent content addressing Consent Agendas, Strategic Planning and Associations Operating Virtually. Thanks to Melinda Moore, Carolyn Lugbill, CAE and Paulette Vinette, CAE FASAE for contributing articles that are sure to become valuable resource for FORUM readers.

We will be adding new content to our May and June refresh issues. If you would like to contribute an article to the next newsletter cycle, please send me an e-mail at [email protected].

Respectfully submitted,

Constance Wrigley-Thomas, CAE – Essentient Association Management
CSAE Trillium Chapter Board of Directors/FORUM Editor