Dear Friends:
Halfway through the IABC/Chicago board year, I write with some thoughts on our work together in these unusually challenging times.
In the midst of an economic downturn unlike any in decades, uncertainty seems to be the only certainty. But what has become clearer is that IABC is here to stay and will continue to support us professionally, as we support one another.
For IABC/Chicago, as for many non-profit associations, our challenge is to work more creatively and efficiently while ensuring that we continue to remain critical to your success. After all, it is YOU, the member, which makes IABC/Chicago.
In the last few months we’ve engaged with members in a variety of ways. Professional development luncheons included:
- A WaMu case study on crisis communication planning shared by Karen Horn
- A panel discussion on social responsibility with representatives from Allstate and ITW
- Research findings from Watson Wyatt’s recent ROI study shared by Jill Folan
Members shared plenty of laughs at an October networking event. Tom Yorton, Second City president detailed how he prepared the company for success with learning and training, branded entertainment, and digital and interactive media. We held a mentoring event at Loyola University, pairing 20 mentors/mentees for growth opportunities. Work is under way on a student chapter at DePaul University.
IABC/Chicago is preparing 21 professionals for their ABC (Accredited Business Communicator) credential, recognizing communicators who have reached a global standard in knowledge and proficiency. IABC/Chicago also supported the Tampa chapter with award program judging.
Currently, your chapter consists of nearly 500 professionals who represent a wide variety of industries coming from corporate, non-profit, agency and independent practitioner worlds. As the second largest IABC chapter in the world, with a significant portion of members having 15 years or more experience in communications, we are a strong organization.
I’m proud to be part of such a wonderful organization and honored to be your chapter leader. As 2010 begins with signs of economic recovery, your board will continue to refine the services we provide you. At your request, we’re planning more networking time and volunteer opportunities to expand your knowledge and experience, more suburban programming, and award/recognition opportunities.
Let us know how we can best support you.