This past year, Anita was honoured with the PCMA 2020 Jeremy Tyrrell Memorial Memorial Award for Volunteer Leadership. Inspired by the topic, Anita shared her thoughts on the importance of industry volunteerism and her personal experiences as a volunteer.
Throughout my life, I have been a consistent seeker of industry related education to further my professional life, however, my “belonging” through volunteering is what has advanced me through the years. Volunteering isn’t about giving your time; it’s about cultivating friendships, a sense of accomplishment, learning new skills and being a contributing member of society. PCMA, MPI, ILEA, FICP, SITE, Daily Bread Food Bank, Big Sisters; my volunteer time at each association has moved me forward in my life, personally and professionally.
As a hotel sales manager on the MPI Christmas Gala committee, I was introduced to the world of events; who are these people that can create décor for 400 on no budget? I wanted to be like them; I left the hotel and now I own a planning firm.
My volunteering on a leadership committee connected me to a major influencer at a company I was trying to connect with. I now have been managing their events for several years and have grown a strategic partnership with the corporation.
By being willing to share some learnings as a speaker at industry events, I have now been quoted in publications and have had confidence in penning articles; so now I’m a published author.
Personally, when I had a tough pregnancy and was put in isolation; my committee chair was the first to dawn a gown and bring me flowers to brighten my day.
When I had to add to my team, my co-volunteers became my employees.
Volunteering to me is a 360 professional and personal activity; you give and you receive.
Being recognized as PCMA 2020 Jeremy Tyrrell Memorial Memorial Award for Volunteer Leadership recipient, will be a recognition I will cherish forever.
Interested in finding out more about Anita’s volunteer work or how you may be able to get involved? Please reach out to Anita by sending us a message here.