Involvement is about giving and receiving

Northwestern Financial Review, Dec 1-Dec 14, 2002 by Clavin, Sharon

MANY YEARS AGO, a good friend of mine impressed me by dedicating considerable time and talent to an organization supporting at-risk youth in our community.

One day, I asked her why she devoted so much effort through the years to this cause. Her answer: "If an organization is worth joining, it's worth being involved in its activities." I never forgot that simple, yet befitting, philosophy.

I joined Heritage Clubs International in 1996 and four years later, my peers nominated and elected me to their board. As my term on the board comes to an end, I look fondly on the wonderful people with whom I've served during the past three years.

I remember my first Peer Group Conference in Canada. I was more than a little excited - and yes, nervous - but this concern was needless. The HCI members were warm and welcoming, more than willing to listen and give sound advice. Goodness, they even asked this newcomer for her opinions! I returned home with renewed energy, lots of neat ideas and a terrific circle of friends.

Each year, our Peer Group Conference provides the incentive I need to make my club bigger and better. Working with fellow club directors and the Preferred Tour Operators, I am able to relate new strategies to my bank's management on retaining our customer base and marketing community bank services to the expanding 50-and-older population.

However, this value goes beyond the conference. Thanks to my network of contacts in the travel industry, especially club directors like you, I am able to pick up the phone and talk to experienced, smart people who can help me solve a particular problem. Believe me, nothing beats a network of people in the business!

Now that I am leaving the HCI board, I thank you for allowing me to serve you, and I challenge you to become a board member. I guarantee you will grow as a person and as a club director. Heritage Clubs International also will grow as you bring fresh ideas, goals and standards to the table. Serving has been an honor and privilege, and the rewards have been many. I know it will be this way for you, too.

Sharon Clavin is director of the Great Escapes Club at the State Bank of Long Lake, Minn.