“Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” was a hit by Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell in 1967. We were reminded of the importance of keeping our eyes on the mountains during our January workshop. What a wonderful way to start the year! The workshop got us all thinking about the importance of going through the process of creating our own personal philosophy statement in regards to our work with volunteers and what fuels our passion. The statement should provide a context and a guide for our daily work as well as incorporate the ethical core values and principles. We are to consider our roles as leaders and how does that fit with who we are personally in the community, the larger nation and in the world?

So, as you plan for strategic volunteer involvement, advocate for your volunteers, attract and onboard your volunteer workforce, prepare volunteers for their roles, document volunteer impact, manage volunteer performance and acknowledge, celebrate and sustain your volunteers, GRAVA is here to support and help you along the way. It is going to be a great year as we keep our eyes on the mountains!

Excited to hear about progress made on your personal philosophy statements and updates on your professional development at our next meeting!

See you in February,

Melissa M. Gilmore, M Ed., CVA
GRAVA President