Welcome to IFMA Orlando. As we enter 2008, it's a good time to reflect on the success of our association in 2007.  Our membership grew to 185 members by year end. We are rapidly approaching large chapter status which starts when we number more than 200. We provided high quality programs via the monthly luncheons at Dubsdread, the CFM roundtables, new member orientations, several social networking events, and the golf tournament which helped support a worthy local cause. Less visible but vitally important to the long term success of the chapter were a strategic planning session, based on feedback received from an all chapter survey, and a successful application for a national award of excellence. In the area of Membership marketing, we were judged excellent in comparison with peer chapters.  While going through the process of applying for awards, we also became aware of places we're not hitting all high marks.    The strategic plan helps us establish a basis for future priorities, and long range plans. Since we are a volunteer organization, with board members and committee chairs changing each year, it is important to have the strategic plan in writing, so as each group passes through, their contributions help accumulate to objectives that will take years to complete.  Also, it gives incoming volunteers a road map of where we've been, and actions needed to improve in strategic areas. We will soon post the strategic plan on the web site in order that a larger number of members can be aware of, and contribute to the process. Another highlight of 07 was the memo of understanding and cooperation between IFMA and USGBC, announced at World Workplace in New Orleans. 08 will see much more joint collaboration and program offerings. We plan to share several of our program/social activities with the Central Florida chapter of the USGBC.  Speaking of World Workplace, it was a great time for all who attended, IFMA Orlando had about 20 members present. We enjoyed a formal chapter dinner for the 2nd year in a row, and plan another in Dallas this October.  Of course we can never have enough volunteers for our committee activities, and I encourage YOU to get involved to the degree you can. Yes it's a committment of time, but each of us has special talents, and there is a place for whatever you are willing to share. I've found my time management skills have greatly improved since I joined the chapter 4 years ago, as well as my ability to recognize non-productive activities and replace them with those that will get something done, now. Practicing teamwork, leadership, and public speaking  each month are skills my employer benefits from, one reason they are happy to support my activities in the chapter.  We have a few openings now, check out the committees page for more. Finally, I am so happy to be part of the leadership team, we have a wonderful team of talented, professional, and dedicated people working to make IFMA Orlando one of the best chapters in the world.  Please join me in supporting the chapter by showing up, that's all you have to do, just show up, and we'll all go forward from there! You are welcome to contact any board or committee member anytime, that's why we publish everyone's contact information.  I look forward to hearing from you, and seeing you soon! Sincerely, Geoffrey L (Geoff) Allen, CFM President, IFMA Orlando gallen@glatting.com

President's Month in Review

April 08
March 08
February 08
October 07
September 07
August 07
June-July 07
May 07
April 07