Happy New Year!As we step into 2024 with renewed energy and focus, I am excited to share the journey that lies ahead for our amazing chapter. This year is not just a continuation, but a revitalization of our commitment to the fundamental values that make us a unique and vibrant community. We're still going "back to basics" by strengthening our roots while embracing innovative approaches to meet the ever-evolving needs of our profession and our members.
Reflecting on the past year, I am filled with immense pride for the strides we have made together.Our ability to adapt and thrive is evident through the significant increase of in-person events in 2023. This is a testament to our resilience and dedication to our craft. While we experimented with in-person seminars, your feedback was clear – the flexibility of web-based offerings remains paramount for your continuing education. Your voice guides our path, and thus, we will continue our monthly webinars while enhancing our in-person networking offerings.
Mark your calendars for ourupcoming events, including a Happy Hour in March, our Welcome a Board kick-off meeting in June, the Board Retreat in July, our revitalized Fall Homecoming Author's Fair in September, and the Annual Holiday Party in December. These gatherings are not just networking events, but milestones in our journey of growth, learning, and connection. We love seeing you in person so be sure to join!
Financially, our organization is in the best position it has been in recent history,a reflection of your trust and partnership. We are channeling this fiscal strength into an ambitious initiative – a small initial investment of the funds you have entrusted us with. Our vision is to create an enduring legacy, fostering a future where small business grants, student scholarships, loan repayment grants, and event sponsorships can transform potential into achievement for our members.
That being said, the leadership of our chapter, the Board of Directors, needs your participation. Our membership is a mosaic of perspectives and experiences, and it's imperative that our board mirrors this diversity of experience and background.We invite you to step forward for a current opening of a Board Member at Large position!This is a temporary assignment until April when there will be a formal election. For 2024, the Board will need a Member at Large and Board Secretary. Both of these positions are cornerstones for our chapter's successful governance.
To shape the future of our Board of Directors, we seek passionate members to form a special committee for the forthcoming election of our Board Officers. Your involvement is your voice in action, shaping the trajectory of our chapter. For those interested in the Member at Large vacancy or joining the election committee, please reach out atiecamft@gmail.com.
If you are considering board service, let the2024 CAMFT Leadership Conferenceon Saturday the 3rd be your stepping stone. Remember, as part of our board, the chapter supports your journey by sponsoring attendance at this enriching event.
As we navigate the year ahead, let's move with intention, embracing each opportunity, each challenge, as a catalyst for growth and innovation. Your involvement, your ideas, and your passion are the keystones of our chapter. Together, let's make 2024 a year of action, inspiration, and collective achievement. Here's to a year of building foundations and embracing opportunities – a year of growth, unity, and empowerment.
Respectfully,
Omar González-Valentino, MS, LMFT#115094, LPCC#6913
President, IE-CAMFT Board of Directors
Vice-Chair, CAMFT Chapter Advisory Council
