From the Desk of the National President

By Terry Clarke
2006-2007 National President
 

Greetings to my fellow Progressians, and to all potential members of Progress that have found their way to our National website.

2006 was an excellent year for Progress with a net increase in membership of 14%. The organization has established a strategic plan focused on three key results areas of increasing the profile of Progress, increasing membership and increasing member retention. Through the aligned efforts of all Progressians and the strong leadership of our club Presidents, Zone and Regional Executives and the National Board, we are well on our way to renewal of the organization. I am confident our growth last year is the start of a longer term trend as many Canadians seek to join an enthusiastic group, committed to providing a helping hand to those in need in our society.

Congratulations to the St. John’s club members who hosted a very successful National Convention last September. Their innovative launch of a run in support of our national charitable foundation raised an addition $12,000 for our current campaign in support of Special Olympics. We also welcomed our newest club, the Silks, into Progress and look forward to the energy and enthusiasm they bring to our Alberta North Zone. In addition to the education and fellowship at this year's Convention, many had the chance to take in the warm hospitality and the incredible beauty of the eastern reaches of our country. We leave with fond memories, new friendships and look forward to next year’s convention in Niagara Falls.

On return from Newfoundland, I had the opportunity to visit our newly established National Office in Toronto. Your board has launched efforts to complete the furnishing of the office this year, and to establish this as a viable location for Regional and National Board meetings. The Central Region held their November Board meeting at the National office, and has volunteered to provide the labour for further provisioning of office. We will launch its full operation with an open house on January 26th, in conjunction with the winter National Board meeting. Steps are also underway to increase the responsiveness and quality of our operating procedures within the National office.

Since the Convention in September, your Board has met twice and has developed individual goals and action plans aligned with the strategic plan. Board member goals will be posted to the Member Services section of the National website for member review. We continue our focus on implementing a National marketing program, chartering new clubs and strengthening the operations of existing clubs and zones within Canada. I look forward to meeting with each club over the coming year and call on each of you to demonstrate through leadership your pride in being a Canadian.

Yours for Progress,
Terry Clarke