Give Your Heart to Progress

Submitted by Myra Skerrit
CPC Calgary Wild Rose

On February 15, 2006 the Calgary Wild Rose and Calgary Bow River clubs hosted an information/member recruitment night on behalf of the clubs in the Alberta South Zone. This event, with the theme “Give Your Heart to Progress” had two goals:

• to introduce new people to Progress in a fun and social atmosphere, and

• to allow fellow Progressians the opportunity to reconnect with each other and be reminded of the reasons why they became members in the first place.

As the theme had “heart” at its core, the heart concept was reinforced through heart decorations, heart-shaped chocolates, and the special banner titled “Give Your Heart to Progress” that was made for the occasion. Everyone was also asked to wear something red. An information table with the Progress display, brochures, Wild Rose club scrapbook, and other clubs’ information was available for guests to peruse through the evening. Several clubs brought their banners, which were hung around the room.

As people arrived, they were given half of a heart with half of a word on it. As an icebreaker, they were encouraged to walk around the room and find the person with the other matching half of their heart/word. Over 50 different words were created reflecting some aspect of Progress—the business of Progress, how being in Progress makes one feel, or characteristics of a Progressian. Some of the words included fellowship, handshake, outstanding, kindhearted, teammate, outreach, uplift, and highlight. As words were created and the hearts made whole, they were posted on one wall. It was great to see such positive reinforcement of Progress in this way and it was a fun and different way to meet new people.

Carlos Pardo of Bow River MC’d the short program. He talked about the “what’s in it for me” aspect of Progress—the “tug on your heartstrings” reasons why we are here. National President Bob Lockhart spoke about the big picture of Progress, and each club president or designate spoke about his/her club’s activities.

Adrian Lindsay, 2005 Outstanding New Member in the Western Region, gave his perspective on what it is like as a new member. Myra Skerrett of Wild Rose closed the program and thanked everyone for participating.

In all, 52 people attended. This included long-standing members, new members, pre-members, and seven guests. It was an enjoyable evening that reminded us all how much “heart” we Progressians have. Thanks to everyone who came out that night, and a special thanks to Chris Himmelman of Calgary Bow River who worked with me to plan this evening for you.