JUST ANNOUNCED! April 17 All Hands Call: New Registration Platform and EIC Updates

This webinar will focus on a new service coming to all MPI Chapters and Clubs to enhance the member experience using Cvent. Following this announcement, EIC staff will share important updates on the CMP International Standards, Exam and Preferred Provider Program. All Chapter Presidents, Chapter Administrators, Membership and Education Teams are encouraged to attend.

Cvent Project - Listen Here

EIC Updates - Listen Here

Check out all the events coming up below!

WEC Chapter Challenge and WEC Chapter Toolkit

WEC St. Louis is about eight weeks away and MPI has a new Chapter Challenge with plenty of opportunities for Chapters to win several prizes during the Volunteer Chapter Leader Welcome Reception taking place on June 18. Information about the WEC Chapter Challenge and the WEC Chapter Toolkit are available via the CLRP > Chapter Toolkits > Monthly Toolkits

One quick and simple way to get your Chapter to participate in the draw is to list WEC St. Louis in your Chapter’s event page using the digital assets available in the toolkit.

Volunteer Orientation Planning

Does your Chapter host an annual committee volunteer orientation? If not, consider what that could look like to improve future success and increase your volunteer pipeline. Now is the time to create a program to implement at the start of FY2026. Here’s a short list of topics to include, though each Chapter will have its own needs:

Welcome and Introduction
- Brief introduction of the organization
- Mission, vision, and values
- Importance of volunteer work within the organization

Role and Responsibilities
- Detailed description of volunteer roles
- Expected responsibilities and tasks
- Explanation of time commitment and schedule requirements

Policies and Procedures
- Overview of organizational policies
- Budget (methodology and how to ask for adjustments)
- Volunteer pool (how to seek additional volunteers and define tasks) – include consideration for remote-forward tasks
- Code of conduct and ethical guidelines
- Health and safety protocols
- Confidentiality agreements (not required but could be a Chapter policy)

Training and Development
- Access to organizational resources and information
- Opportunities for skill development and continuous learning
- Mentorship and support systems

Communication and Reporting
- Key contacts within the organization
- Channels for communication and reporting

Benefits and Recognition
- Overview of volunteer benefits
- Recognition programs and awards
- Opportunities for networking and community engagement

Feedback and Evaluation
- Regular feedback mechanisms
- Evaluation and review processes
- Ways to provide suggestions for improvement

Conclusion

- Encouragement and motivational messages
- Q&A session
- Next steps and action plans

Providing a comprehensive orientation ensures that volunteers are well-informed, motivated, and prepared to contribute effectively to the organization's goals. Consider creating an on-demand version of your orientation for volunteers who onboard mid-year. The biggest consideration for this project: how can you set your volunteers up for success?

Let’s Celebrate Volunteers!

As we celebrate Global Volunteer Month this April, we want to express our gratitude to each one of you. Your unwavering dedication and tireless efforts as Volunteer Chapter Leaders have truly made a difference in our community and beyond.

Your passion, commitment, and enthusiasm do not go unnoticed. You are the backbone of our organization, and your hard work has positively impacted countless lives. Whether it's organizing events, coordinating volunteer activities, or simply lending a helping hand, your contributions are invaluable.

 Thank you for being the driving force behind our mission. Your energy inspires others to join in and make a difference.

President’s Dinner at WEC St. Louis

The current Chapter President of each chapter will be invited to attend the President's Dinner at WEC St. Louis in June with a complimentary ticket. Be on the lookout for a special invite which will be sent as we get closer to the event. Should any other Chapter members want to purchase a ticket to attend, more details will be coming soon. Complimentary tickets are non-transferable.

Annual Retreat Planning for FY2026

It might feel early with Mid-Year Retreats still in progress, but now is the time to start planning your Annual Retreat. We recommend that Annual Retreats be held after the Chapter Leadership Summit (September 11) and by the end of November. Remember that using an MPI-Verified Facilitator is required at all Annual Retreats for Chapter compliance. Please let your Regional Operations Manager know as soon as you have the dates for your Annual Retreat confirmed.

MPI Communities for Chapter Leaders Launches

Encourage Your New Members to Attend an MPI Member Orientation Session

New MPI members, be sure to register for this 45-minute webinar! You’ll learn all about the benefits available to you, and how to utilize them to accomplish your unique goals.  

All sessions take place on Zoom at 10:00am-10:45am, CST. 

Thursday, April 17, 2025 REGISTER

Friday, May 23, 2025 REGISTER

Wednesday, June 25 REGISTER

Membership Update

Thank you for making the GMID Membership Campaign a Success!

Thank you to all the Chapters, Clubs, and members who helped promote the GMID Membership offer earlier this month. Your emails, social media efforts, and other outreach helped make the campaign a success!

The GMID promotion brought in 210 new members and more than 300 renewals. We are thrilled to have so many new and returning members in the MPI Community!

Last Call! FY2023-2024 Incentive Metrics Points

This is a final reminder that the claim forms for FY2023-2024 incentive metrics points for eligible Chapters are due to MPI no later than April 30, 2025. The Board of Directors must approve the use of the Chapter’s incentive metrics points, and the claim form completed and submitted to your Regional Operations Manager.

New Resource: Chapter Administrator Onboarding

Thanks to our global volunteers on the Chapter and Membership Advisory Council, new Chapter Administrator Onboarding training has been added to the CLRP here: Chapter Administrator/Resources. The training covers information a new Chapter Administrator needs to acclimate to the MPI ecosystem. In addition to administrators, all volunteers may gain valuable insight into the administrator role by viewing the training. Thank you, Christine Irwin (MPI Carolinas Chapter), Leslie Wright (MPI Toronto Chapter) and Melissa Benowitz (MPI Potomac Chapter), for your contributions in leading this effort!

Consent Agendas Shouldn’t Include Board Reports

If you are using Consent Agendas in your Chapter’s Board meetings, do not include Board Reports in this section of business. Why you ask? Because Board Reports are not required to be formally approved by the Board of Directors. Reports should be included in the meeting materials – but simply not included as part of the Consent Agenda. If you have any questions, check in with your Regional Operations Manager.

Regional Exchange Event – San Francisco

Are you ready to take your event planning skills to the next level? Join us at the MPI Regional Business Exchange in San Francisco on April 16 for a unique opportunity to upskill, network, and connect with industry leaders.
 Here’s what you can expect:

• Exclusive Education Session: Don’t miss out on a special preview of the MPI Academy’s Meeting and Event Risk Management course, led by industry expert Kevin Coffey. Gain valuable insights on how to better manage risks and enhance your events' success.
• Networking with Industry Professionals: This event brings together a diverse group of event planners and suppliers, providing the perfect platform to expand your network and build relationships that could elevate your future events.
• Actionable Takeaways: Whether you're looking to deepen your expertise or learn new trends in event planning, this event will give you the tools you need to increase your ROI and streamline your planning process.

Make this half-day investment in yourself and your career – you'll leave with the knowledge and connections that will set you apart in the industry.

Anti-Human Trafficking Ambassadors – in your inbox soon

Hello Volunteer Chapter Leaders!  As you know, it is now required for all Chapters to host a meeting or share information focused on anti-human trafficking (don’t forget to report this in your metrics, too). Very soon you’ll be hearing from your anti-human trafficking Ambassador, a friendly committee member who will guide you toward the best resources and provide you with ideas and suggestions for being successful in your AHT messaging if you need assistance. Watch for an email coming soon! In the meantime, if you have any questions about hosting AHT content this year, please get in touch with committee Chair Jennifer Berkemeier:  jberkemeier@huntingtonplacedetroit.com

Join us for the Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Office Hours for Volunteer Chapter Leaders

Join us for a special session hosted by the MPI Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Global Advisory Committee. These office hours will provide Volunteer Chapter Leaders with an opportunity to discuss current EDI initiatives, share ideas, and collaborate. We will also explore key global EDI efforts and discuss how they can support and strengthen regional initiatives.

We encourage all Volunteer Chapter Leaders to actively participate, share their experiences, and help develop solutions that are both locally relevant and globally aligned. Your input is essential in shaping a more inclusive future for everyone.

Add these Meeting Links to your Calendar:

• Topic: Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Office Hours for Chapter Leaders

Time: April 21, 2025, 3:00pm Central Time (US and Canada)

https://mpipresents.zoom.us/j/84361161295

Meeting ID: 843 6116 1295

• Topic: Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Office Hours for Chapter Leaders

Time: April 23, 2025, 12:00pm Central Time (US and Canada)

https://mpipresents.zoom.us/j/87200287935

Meeting ID: 872 0028 7935

• Topic: Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Office Hours for Chapter Leaders

Time: April 30, 2025, 10:00am Central Time (US and Canada)

https://mpipresents.zoom.us/j/88436238566

Meeting ID: 884 3623 8566

WEC 2025 Chapter Leader Lounge Activities

We’re excited to welcome you to the Chapter Leader Lounge, sponsored by Visit Aurora, at WEC 2025, where you’ll enjoy special programming and gatherings just for Volunteer Chapter Leaders. Make sure these sessions are on your calendar!  

• Wednesday, June 18, 2025, 3:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. CDT, Volunteer Chapter Leader Reception
• Thursday, June 19, 2025, 1:30 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. CDT, Building a Succession Mindset
• Friday, June 20, 2025, 8:00 a.m. - 8:45 a.m. CDT, Regional Council Chair Panel
• Friday, June 20, 4:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. CDT, Do I Need a Motion for That?

 And that's just the beginning! Stay tuned for the full agenda with more sessions and connection opportunities.

Register Today for Upcoming Events!

April 24 All Hands Call: Chapter Awards  

Join your fellow Volunteer Chapter Leaders as we recognize our FY2023-2024 Chapter Award Winners! Come see if your Chapter will be recognized as a Chapter of Excellence, Top Performing Chapter, or Chapter of Merit based on your FY2023-2024 performance. Register in advance and invite your entire Board. 

April 24, 2025, at 10:00am CST - Listen Here

May 8 Solution Rooms Virtual Meetup – Final Solution Room for 2025!

MPI Solution Rooms foster active, meaningful connections between attendees, and provide peer-to-peer support and solutions to the challenges Volunteer Chapter Leaders are currently facing.

This month’s Solution Rooms will be available for the following departments: Office of the President, Marketing & Communications, Finance & Sponsorship, Education, Chapter Administrators, and Membership.

May 8, 2025, at 10:00am CST – Register here

WEC 2025 St. Louis Volunteer Chapter Leader Discount Registration  

All Volunteer Chapter Leaders, Chapter Administrators, and Regional Council members are eligible for discounted registration. You must be a member in good standing at the time of registration.    

WEC 2025 St. Louis Discounted Rates:    

• Planner Member = $729 

• Supplier Member = $1,129    

Use this link to access the leader discount: Register Online Today!   

Receptions and Meet-ups at WEC St. Louis  

Need assistance selecting a location for your Chapter/Club reception or meet-up during WEC in St. Louis? If you are planning to schedule Chapter/Club meet-ups/receptions/etc., please do so on Thursday, June 19, between 5:30 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. CDT  

Please contact Darian Jenkins with Explore St. Louis at DJenkins@explorestlouis.com or 314-992-0621. 

Sitefinity Training  

Training will be held for Chapter/Club website administrators or anyone who is making updates to the Chapter/Club website. Learn tips to be more efficient, tactics to help engage your audience, and best practices to save you time. Plus, a Q&A with MPI's IT team so bring any issues you need assistance with. 

June 26, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. CDT - Register here 

QuickBooks Online Training – Budgeting

This session will provide general guidance on how to use QuickBooks Online for Budgeting, share best practices, and answer any specific questions you may have. Bring your questions! Open to any Volunteer Chapter Leader or Chapter Administrator who uses QuickBooks Online at an MPI Chapter.

July 31, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. CDT – Register here

Chapter Leadership Summit 2025 - Save the Date

All FY2026 Volunteer Chapter Leaders and Chapter Administrators will be invited to attend the virtual Chapter Leadership Summit taking place Thursday, September 11, 2025.  Please mark your calendars now and include this date in your Nomination Process to ensure new board members attend this important training session. Complete details will be shared as they are finalized in the Chapter Leader Newsletter.

MPI Foundation News

CHAPTER/CLUB CHAMPION AWARD 2025 – Now Accepting Applications

Think back to 2024, did your chapter/club have an amazing MPI Foundation experience for your Chapter/Club? Does your Chapter/Club contribute to the MPI Foundation on an annual basis? Does your Chapter/Club foster industry and community support for the MPI Foundation?

Thank you and consider celebrating your success and apply for the Chapter/Club Champion Award for 2025.

Check out the details here: https://www.mpi.org/foundation/how-to-give/chapter-giving

Applications are due May 2, 2025, Complete the brief application here: https://us.grantrequest.com/application.aspx?sid=6233&fid=35244

Recognition of the winning Chapter/Club will be at WEC St. Louis

Current Sponsorship opportunities, including multiple WEC Scholarship options.

SHARE WITH YOUR CHAPTER/CLUB MEMBERS NOW: https://www.mpi.org/foundation/get-help/scholarships.

Deadlines to apply are coming up quickly

Chapter/Club Pledge Letters – Please send your 2025 Chapter/Club plan for your MPI Foundation strategy and commitment for your donation as soon as possible to: stonehouse@bellnet.ca

Not sure what you will do yet? Leaving space for a Foundation Friendly activity later in your term? Simply let us know that is your plan. We are looking for your replies to know you have heard our request and are thinking about how to support the MPI Foundation in 2025.

One last thing, thank you for your ongoing support for the MPI Foundation, every donation makes a difference to not just our scholarship recipients but also to our Chapters/Clubs accessing grants for education and more.