December 15, 2012
By Helen Hassard
Membership and Chapter Coordinator

Helen HassardWith a new year fast approaching, this is a time when many of us look back on what we accomplished, reflect on goals we didn’t achieve and set goals for the coming year.

As you can see from the annual reports, our chapters, sector groups and committees all had very successful years. I can tell you first-hand that the rest of their winter events will not disappoint.
 

How to get involved

Some of you might be wondering how you can get involved with one of these groups next year. Maybe you’re looking to improve your leadership skills, get to know more members, or have some fun planning meaningful projects or events. There are lots of opportunities.
 

Many benefits

Michael LaPorte CLT, past president of the Georgian Lakelands Chapter, puts it best, “LO offers me the educational tools, the network of other industry professionals, and a place to voice my views of the current state of the industry, and where I hope it to go. I think the largest benefit I see is in being involved. Sitting on different boards and committees allows me to learn how an organization runs, meet and work with the many other leaders in our industry, to assess our current state, and formulate the future direction for our industry.”

Those looking to get involved at their local chapter should attend the Annual General Meeting. This is when elections take place for the board of directors. Most chapters run the AGM at the March meetings, but Ottawa’s is coming up quickly on Jan. 22. Go to www.horttrades.com/comingevents, or check your weekly e-news for more information. To get involved with one of the LO sector groups or committees, please get in touch with us at home office, 1-800-265-5656. Even if you don’t want to commit to a board position, these groups are always looking for volunteers for specific projects and everyone is welcome.
 

Give us feedback

At Landscape Ontario, we are always looking for ways to improve, so if there is any feedback you would like to give regarding your membership and the benefits, please contact me directly at helen@landscapeontario.com, or at 1-800-265-5656, ext. 354. Also, if you would like your staff members added to our e-news mailing list, all you need to do is ask.
Call at 1-800-265-5656, ext. 354, or email helen@landscapeontario.com, or tweet me about it at @LOMembership. I would like to hear your thoughts and feedback.