One of the neat things about being a member of
an international organization is that there are opportunities to get involved both on a chapter and an international level. We
can give back locally, building our network within our home communities, while also meeting and working with professionals
located throughout North America and the world.
Each fall, AFP International asks its members
to volunteer to serve on a committee. As I learned for myself, serving on a committee is a fabulous way to see for yourself
how AFP is run…and how involved members are in its work. It’s also great prep for anyone thinking about
taking on a leadership role within the chapter. Before I stepped into the role of President, I served on the Member/Chapter
Services Committee, meeting the staff at AFP International and getting a good lay of the land for who did what and whom I
could call when I needed assistance. Now, we recommend all President Elects serve on a committee so they have that view
before they are leading the chapter.
In addition, it’s
simply good sense in terms of career development. You get to meet great people all over the place and expand your own
knowledge while giving back to the profession. I am pleased to share that we have a number of people serving on
the international level:
· June Bradham, AFP
International Board, Member at Large; Education and Training Committee, Strategic Partners Task Force
· Rachel Hutchisson,
AFP International Strategic Planning Committee; Education and Training Committee, Strategic Partners Task Force
· Becky Dornish, AFP
International Member/Chapter Services Committee
· Kenton Barham, AFP
International Nonprofit Organizational Membership Task Force
· Sally Ehrenfried,
AFP International US Government Relations Committee and PAC Board
· Anna Augustin, AFP
International Diversity Committee
This coming fall, think about throwing your name
in the hat to serve. Most of the work is done through conference calls. If you attend the International Conference, there
are meetings associated with that event, as well. If you aren’t ready to participate but want to learn more, ask
one of the people listed about their experiences. Remember, AFP is very much a member-led organization, and that means
you!
