From the Executive Manager - Erin Zimmermann

How do we welcome people? This theme has shown up in several places in the last month. During a recent IAP2 DEI Committee meeting, the chair opened the meeting with the icebreaker asking members to share an example of when they welcomed someone. Answers ranged from sitting beside a child while volunteering in a classroom, to onboarding a new employee/ team member, to really being present and listening to someone’s story.

At a recent board meeting a member attended as a guest and was surprised to be included in the introductions as opposed to just listening in webinar format. 

As public participation professionals, much of the work begins and continues with a welcome. How do we help people feel included, involved, and seen? What does a welcoming mindset look like? How do you greet yourself in the morning?

I continue to think about how IAP2 USA can build more thoughtful welcomes to our new members, chapters, and partners. 

We would love to hear from you. Share your welcoming ideas by emailing erin@iap2usa.org. For a quick break, consider checking out this TEDx on Hostmanship: the art of making people feel welcome.

Erin Zimmermann, 

Executive Manager

IAP2 USA

Get Involved Volunteer and Engagement Opportunities with IAP2 USA

The 2023 Call for Volunteers is now open. 

Take advantage of the opportunity to make a difference in the P2 community. Develop your leadership skills and grow your professional network by volunteering to serve on a committee. If you're interested in growing personally or professionally, we have a place for you!  

Diversity Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Committee builds IAP2’s organizational capacity to ensure that IAP2 is truly an inclusive organization and is safe, welcoming and supportive to a diverse population. 

Nominating Committee assists with the development of the Board of Directors slate for elections.

Revenue Development Committee addresses new avenues of revenue generation and fundraising. 

Training and Professional Development Committee helps to identify training and other professional development opportunities to meet the needs of members and others in the field. 

Additional opportunities including micro-volunteering spots focusing on our communication efforts. If you are interested in social media, blogging, or writing newsletter articles contact Erin@iap2usa.org. Social media devotees and content creators are encouraged to volunteer.

Grow your professional network and help expand your organization.

2023 IAP2 USA Training Request for Proposals