Hi All,

I just returned from the Carolina Council's professional development event, which also included visits to a local university.  In a small way, I hope I made a difference on the business front -  by sharing with the local chapters the great progress that IMA is making in its growth strategy (I actually gave a somewhat technical talk on Enterprise Risk Management), and on the behavioral front - by demonstrating in actions and not just words that IMA Global staff cares about our volunteers at the local chapter level. 

But this is not meant to be about me.... it is about the power of the community and the wonderful benefits that "accrue" from engaging with your local chapter/council and having a positive volunteer or member experience ..... yes, THE POWER OF THE COMMUNITY AND ENGAGING LOCAL AMBASSADORS ...

The passion for growing IMA - with the global staff and board working closely with its local ambassadors at the local chapter and council level - was prevalent during my visit to the Carolinas.  But what is even more touching, honestly, is the compassion and caring that I observed in both group settings and in small pair-wise vignettes of people engaging.  Life-long friends getting re-connected.  Energized students waking up at 5 am in the morning to make the drive to Myrtle Beach which in turn energized us "seasoned" professionals.  Inquiring about someone's recent illness and seeing if help can be offered.  Discussions around growth abound - a new chapter, a new student chapter, and more.

Special thanks to Bill Craft and Joe Plati and the entire conference team for their professionalism and their kindness.

The Power of Community .... experience it now at your local chapter and/or council!!

Keep well and share your thoughts with me.

   Jeff