In Your Own Words - Michele Gonzalez, CMP

Volunteering? Why would I do that?

When I learned about MPI Texas Hill Country Chapter from my employer I immediately signed up for a membership and started supporting chapter events and following MPI. After 5 years of being a member I decided I needed to get more from the chapter. How could I get more? Sometimes you have to give something to get something back that is meaningful to you. 

Did I care enough to take a leap into a circle of people that were strangers to me? How would they ever know me if I didn’t make an impression on them? Nothing changes without some kind of effort. So into the world of board leadership I went. I knew going into it that there was real work to do but I was ready to pitch in. Knowing that this would take time from my schedule; getting approval from my employer was key. Participating in a board leadership position shows your employer that you are ready to take on extra challenges and that you are willing to learn best practices of this industry. It’s a win for them and for you. 

All of us join trade organizations for three reasons: Connections, Community and Resources. The only way to achieve this is to participate. Volunteerism is what you make it. Nobody is going to hand the benefits to you. You have to build trust in a community of meeting professionals to make those connections and to find those resources. 

A great way to get involved is to volunteer for board committees. Board Committees can show you what MPI is all about and what it takes to be on the board. If you are pursuing a CMP all the educational credits you receive from events will count towards that goal. 

We have committees for communications, education, fundraising and membership. Our committees are chaired by board members giving direction and strategic goals. 

If you work for an association and handle board governance, volunteering will give you invaluable insight into what the board does and what it means to be on a working board. Volunteering for MPI THCC has given me so much knowledge. It has opened up a community that I wouldn’t have even known about but I was able to build the trust necessary to be accepted. 

If you are new to Austin, San Antonio or the Hill Country take some time to come to events and meet your board. Learn what we are about and how you can help. We are here to listen to your concerns and serve our membership. Volunteer or apply to serve either way it can only benefit you and your career.