National Volunteer Conference Recap

This is a recap on this past weekend's National Volunteer Conference,
courtesy of Jim Hahn (repost from APO-L):

Brothers:

Please allow me to be the first of what I am sure will be many comments you are likely to hear in the coming months about the terrific success of the first National Volunteer Conference.

From the very beginning, it was clear that this was NOT "your grandma's SRW." The wonderful keynote speaker from the Greenleaf Center set the tone for the weekend -- offering a reflective and thoughtful series of comments on the need for A-Phi-O, and its mission of Servant Leadership.

The multi-track structure of the workshops/training allowed every volunteer in attendance to specialize his/her personal development. From helping chapters as Advisors, to helping extension efforts, to serving on the National Board of Directors -- there was truly something for everyone.

Mealtime was used as an opportunity to discuss important issues confronting the Fraternity and to update our folks in "the field" on the progress of our many National Program Areas. Additionally, scheduled "Focus Groups" allowed for even further critical looks at the direction the Fraternity is taking.

With well over 150 in attendance, the conference proved to be one of the largest and most diverse gatherings of our alumni/volunteers outside of a National Convention -- and with a goal of over 300 for next year -- it promises only to get bigger and better.

There are many thanks due to Brother Julie Moore, AIVD PD, and her incredible team (including Kari Logan, Rob Coop, Laura Fowler, and Bob London). Thanks to the great national office staff for their assistance and participation, to the many presenters from within and outside our ranks, and, of course, to every participant who came committed to growth and left prepared for action.

Consider this an early commercial for the NVC 2005 -- and plan to attend. Our Fraternity stands to benefit from your dedication to learning and sharing. And if you have not yet attended a LAUNCH course for the APO LEADS program, do it soon and learn about how to be a true
Servant Leader.

Remember: A-Phi-O: Where Service Starts! [and service starts with us!]

Fraternally,

- Jim Hahn, CFRE
National LD and Marketing Committees