How many National Conference on Volunteering and Services have you been to?? None? One? Two? For me, it’s NINE conferences!!!!!!

Nine conferences? Where did this last decade go? Since my first appearance at the National Conference on Service and Volunteering in Salt Lake City in 2002, I have been every year as an attendee and presenter. I have also exhibited in the past three years.

I was reflecting today, as to what I have gained from this conference in the last nine years.
1. Vision Broadened - When I only focus on my program, my city, my state and my country, I can limit myself and my vision. Exposure to different tracks, different voices and different exhibitors has encouraged me and forced me to broaden my own vision.
2. Friends Gained – The intensity of the time and the opportunity to spend quality time with people has given me a collection of colleagues and friends who I can draw on for advice, partnerships and coffee!
3. Experimentation Permitted - The conference has allowed me to grow and experiment as a presenter, exhibitor and person- to test new facets, new methods, new thoughts, ideas and theories.
4. Passion Renewed - Like a recharger for burning out leaders, the conference gives a definite boost to spirits, especially during times of tight financial budgets.

I have three challenges/questions to this end:
1. How are you preparing yourself to broaden your vision, gain friends, experiment and be renewed?
2. What is your organization doing to encourage this?
3. What can the conference itself do to facility these things?

Love to know your answers!! In the meantime, make yourself known to me: http://www.facebook.com/martin.j.cowling
See you in the Big Apple.
- Martin J Cowling
People First-Total Solutions