Kristen McIntyre CHT
project and event coordinator
The term governance is a mystery to many, but it is actually the lifeblood of any association. Landscape Ontario has been fortunate over the years through the support of its many devoted and committed volunteers willing to donate their time and energy to enhancing this industry.
Governance has been defined as, “The combination of processes and structures implemented by the board to inform, direct, manage and monitor the activities of the organization toward the achievement of its objectives.”
When you add up all of the people who serve the association on a chapter board, sector group or on the provincial board of directors, there are more than 260 LO members who participate in volunteer governance. Those who provide governance at LO are the leaders of our association, and in turn the horticulture industry.
Benefits of volunteering
For those people who have never volunteered, the benefits of are not be immediately recognized. LO’s second vice president, Tim Kearney, is one of our best examples of a chapter volunteer turned provincial executive board leader.
He puts in countless hours serving the association. If you were to ask him about his philosophy on volunteerism, he would say, “I do devote a lot of my time to the association. Although you may not realize an immediate financial gain, the exchange of ideas and the networking are invaluable and pay you back more than if you were getting via a pay cheque. Reward comes in different ways. The value of volunteering has enriched my life and I welcome many more years with LO.”
The next LO governance leadership development day is scheduled on Thurs., Dec. 3.
Personal connections and the feeling of community are the best parts of any association. Have your voice heard by volunteering on your local chapter board or sector group. Learn what you need, and share what you know.
To find out more information, or to register go to click here.
