One year ago, I was approached and asked to be the incoming Women in Parking chairperson. I was honored and flattered. For the past five years I was the numbers girl behind the scenes as the WIP treasurer. I paid the bills, I made sure we didn’t spend too much money and I raised funds.
Now leading this group – could I do it? Without hesitation I jumped at the opportunity with honor and excitement running through my veins. I left my calculator in my desk and set out to take on my new role. I am only in my first year, but I have loved every minute of it. It is easy to lead an organization when you have a great group of people.
I want to start off by thanking our board and past board members. Volunteerism is defined in many ways. But the bottom line is it’s the policy or practice of volunteering one’s time or talents for charitable, educational, or other worthwhile activities. I wake up each day and think of new ways to motivate our group. And then when the day ends, I didn’t have to motivate at all. They are self-driven and the initiatives of WIP are what motivate us all.
So, in 2018 this self-driven group of WIP board members put on a successful conference in March for 160 attendees, increased membership by 15 percent, rolled out another successful mentor pairing program, held four webinars, distributed four e-newsletters and held an election for three board seats that will open in January 2019.
And finally, WIP will have completed its first fund raiser helping the National Breast Cancer Foundation by the time this issue is published. WIP sold raffle tickets for some amazing prizes at its reception during the NPA show in Las Vegas and all proceeds will go to the Foundation. Results are not in due to the timing of this issue but check our next newsletter for results, winners and sponsors.
We hope this issue, the member benefits and the individuals of WIP inspire you to jump in with both feet. I challenge you to join this great organization to gain valuable experiences and meet great peers in the industry. If you are already a member, jump in to a committee and get more involved. WIP is going places – we would love to take you with us.
MARCY SPARROW is the Women in Parking Chairperson and Advertising Director of Parking Today. She can be reached at marcy@parkingtoday.com.