It’s hard to believe, but it’s been less than two weeks since many of us were in New Orleans for ACE. It was great to see and connect with so many chapter leaders and members from across the country. Those that have had the opportunity to attend ACE know it offers many benefits for chapter leaders to recognize each other’s achievements, share our challenges (and solutions) and expand our network of dedicated volunteers. While each of our education sessions were an opportunity to learn industry related content, we had additional functions specifically dedicated to volunteers. Below are the highlights of volunteer-based events at ACE.
Volunteer Luncheon – We kicked off ACE 2023 with our annual volunteer luncheon to honor volunteers and chapter leaders and recognize their achievements including chapter awards, consisting of the communications, government affairs, membership, and state achievement. We also recognized our Diamond award nominees and finalists during the celebratory luncheon. For a full list of chapter awards, see our next issue of Edge magazine.
Chapter Best Practices – Monday offered an additional interactive opportunity for chapter leaders to network and learn about new chapter best practices. Members of the Chapter Leadership Team (Ben McCullough – IA ANFP, Debbie McDonald – TX ANFP, Melissa Kern – WI ANFP and Toni Skaggs – WY ANFP) were panelists for the session. Each shared their chapter’s best practices on various topics including volunteer recruitment, knowledge management, embracing change and communication. Attendees also shared their own best practices with the audience, and during the roundtable portion of the session.
Honors Gala & Diamond Award – Our annual Honors Gala took place Monday evening, with a bit of twist. Attendees and guests were dressed to the nines accessorized with elegant masquerade masks while they enjoyed dinner and dancing. Our ACE awards recipients were honored during the gala including Chapter Volunteer of the Year Award honoree, Amarilys Saluk, CDM, CFPP from the Southern New England ANFP Chapter, Legacy Award honoree, Colleen Zenk, CDM, CFPP from the Minnesota ANFP Chapter and the Diamond Award winner, Georgia ANFP. To read more about our award winners, please see our next issue of Edge and the ANFP website.