It is a truism that “no one can accurately foresee the future.” However, no one can deny it is crucial that we look ahead with insightful considerations and expectations. It is neither good stewardship nor prudent if members together do not consider long-term strategies and forecasting when expanding P.E.O.’s vision to meet the realities of today and tomorrow’s world for women.
Societal indicators point to trends that are comprehensive, continuing and/or upcoming. Pragmatically considering these variations and changes will assist us in making applicable choices. Some indicators are subtle influences gaining momentum over time; others are part of constant media bombardment; most have components that are both positive and negative. If you devoted some “real time” to compiling a list of
facts that will inf luence P.E.O. in the next 10 years, what would you include?
What external societal forces are having the most effect on your chapter’s future? Even if we wish it weren’t so, has your chapter accepted cultural trends that are today’s reality? Ever increasing use of technology, shifting demographics, an exploding choice of viable options for discretionary time, complex economic demands for average households, transient lifestyles for all ages/stages: all these might head a prioritized list of challenges to be reckoned with…How is your local chapter collectively responding?
Those of us pledged with responsibilities for International Chapter also are studying the current and projected future status for our beloved sisterhood.
In one measure of calculation, your executive board will soon be receiving a demographics research project to share with state, provincial and district leadership. This data, prepared by P.E.O. volunteers who are experts in this field, will assist in targeted programming for sustainability and growth.
On a related note for our tangible assets and resources, experienced staff led by our very capable Chief Executive Officer Anne Pettygrove, as well as P.E.O.s with excellent professional credentials, have developed a continuity strategy for business and administrative functions regarding reasonable preparedness for unforeseen events.
Daily the indicators of P.E.O.’s value deepen and widen. P.E.O. is a culture. P.E.O. is a mindset. P.E.O. is a way of living. Women need what P.E.O. exemplifies.
Organizational opportunities must offer all aspects of sisterhood wisely packaged with timeless relevancy and respected commonality. The challenge is to preserve our foundation principles and heritage but not stagnate with process. There are definitely tensions and differences within members’ viewpoints on how to engage and accomplish this. What significant trends will continue to impact chapter life? Are we seeing only what we are looking for? What are habits? What are perceptions? What are assumptions that may or may not be fulfilled? We cannot limit possibilities by just remembering past successes. We cannot blunt reality. We ponder possible impending steps with mixed thoughts…This is healthy. Discussion for valid improvement that encourages the exchange of ideas is an incremental focus to achieve consensus and cooperation. Actions with evaluation are next.
P.E.O.s are an optimistic lot! From the beginning, we have always affirmed a substantive role for women in all facets of living. P.E.O.’s standards are set high—we know we impact our neighborhoods, our communities and our world. Yes, sisters stand tall and firm as purposeful indicators of the power of momentous influence and leadership. Therefore with confident faith in the future, P.E.O.s must continue the aim to be that pertinent endearing oasis in the lives and times of women.
Thank you to state, provincial and district (s/p/d) officers, committees and appointments completing 2010-11 service in conventions this spring. Your diligence, flexibility and dedicated leadership carefully launched our streamlined s/p/d structure. P.E.O. sincerely appreciates your loyal commitment.
Forward!
Elizabeth E. Garrels,
President, International Chapter
• Change is constant.
• Is your chapter working on at least one new strategy, activity, event or
emphasis this year?
• Are these focused to offer strength, vigor and quality of experience?
• Thank you!
