Message from AVHAP Treasurer

This past weekend, the weather in NH was beautiful, and I was finally able to finish planting my tomato and pepper starts into my raised garden beds. After gardening for many years, this was my first year starting from seed. It was quite unnerving because I always thought of seedlings as delicate. I nurtured them for many weeks by ensuring they were watered, fertilized, received adequate amounts of light, and even a gentle breeze. I ensured their environment was well-controlled. Then, a week prior to planting them in the garden, I took them outside to get acclimated to the stronger light, the stronger wind and lower temps. I was worried. Outside conditions are not as controlled ─ there are so many variables. Then a friend gave me some insight: all a seed wants to do is grow. That’s it. Nothing more, nothing less. Every seed holds the potential to become a bountiful, fruit-bearing plant. In that moment, I started worrying less and started to enjoy the process more.

It reminded me of AHVAP. As an organization, it too possesses the inherent ability to grow and flourish. The concept of our organization germinated in the minds of our founders. For that, I am thankful. Like a seed, organizations such as AHVAP need a strong foundation and support structure to sow their aspirations. For a seed to sprout, it requires the right conditions ─ nutrient-rich soil, sunlight, and water. Likewise, organizations thrive when they create an environment conducive to a growth mindset. This entails cultivating a supportive culture, crafting a clear strategy, and providing the necessary resources for this development.

I am so very proud to say that both my garden and AHVAP are thriving. Membership numbers are growing, learning opportunities for our members are continuously increasing in breadth and depth, and we are ready to support the evolving needs of our membership. From a revenue and income perspective, AHVAP is working hard despite difficult economic times to increase membership and diversity our income. In the month of May as of May 30, the financial breakdown was as follows:

• Total Dues Income: $7440

• Total Education Income: $2,041

• Conference Income: $91,460.46

• Expenses: $12,052.96

As you can see, AHVAP is diligently increasing our offerings to our members to drive even more value for your annual membership.

There are so many ways in which organizations provide value to their members. Since each member will have a different mindset of what they find ‘of value,’ an organization like AHVAP must have multiple ways to engage their membership to ensure they provide this value and continue to be relevant. What do you value in your AHVAP membership?

Sincerely,

Anne Marie Orlando, MBA, RN, RCIS, CVAHP™
Treasurer, Board of Directors
AHVAP