As 2024 comes to a close, I’m struck by how quickly the year has flown by. We recently wrapped up the 2024 APSGO Annual General Meeting, which was a tremendous success. The event featured two remarkable presentations: Kim Olver introduced her latest book, Mental Freedom, and Sue Kranz led an engaging workshop on Boundaries That Work. If you missed these insightful sessions, don’t worry – you will be able to access the audio recordings on the APSGO.ca website in the next month.
As we look ahead to 2025, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to all APSGO members for your unwavering dedication. Whether you ensure meetings run smoothly, provide support to fellow members week after week, or foster a welcoming and safe space where parents feel encouraged to share, your contributions are truly invaluable.
I also want to acknowledge the vital role played by Group Representatives. By participating in Group Rep meetings 2-3 times a year, they offer thoughtful input and innovative suggestions that help the board better understand member needs, make informed decisions, and strengthen our organization. These meetings also reflect the board’s commitment to fostering connections across all APSGO chapters and members.
Recent Group Rep meetings have generated exciting initiatives to enhance member engagement. Suggestions were made such as recognizing coaches, sharing success stories, and promoting fundraising opportunities like Giving Tuesday or Facebook Birthday Fundraisers.
Member stories, in particular, uplift struggling parents, inspire action, and foster belief in new possibilities. I encourage all members to share their stories, as they truly make a difference.
APSGO’s vision is to create a society where all parents are aware of and have access to the strategies, support, and practical techniques needed to deal with the disruptive behaviour of their children. Coaches play an essential role in helping parents achieve this vision. To support them, the board remains committed to offering regular Choice Theory and Coach workshops, alongside exploring new ways to engage and support members. In 2024 alone, we held ten workshops, all marked by strong attendance and meaningful discussions. Looking ahead, we are excited to offer in-person workshops in 2025, focusing on APSGO concepts and practical parenting strategies. Stay tuned for more details!
This year also marked an exciting milestone with the opening of a new APSGO chapter in Bruce/Grey, Owen Sound. Prior to this, the region had no APSGO presence. The chapter opened in February with five members and, nine months later, has grown to eight members – and continues to expand.
APSGO’s growth is a testament to the dedication of its members, whose consistent efforts week after week strengthen our community. I would also like to extend a special thank-you to my fellow board members. Their persistent belief in APSGO’s mission and their selfless contributions – both within their home groups and at the board level – have led to life-changing outcomes for themselves and countless families.
Serving as President of the APSGO board is an honour and a privilege. Being part of this community means joining a network of individuals who support one another in building fulfilling lives and stronger relationships. The rewards of contributing to this shared journey are immeasurable. None of this would be possible without the tireless efforts and collaboration of my fellow board members, whose commitment ensures APSGO’s continued growth and success.
I look forward to another inspiring year in 2025, working alongside the passionate and creative members of the APSGO board. Together, we will continue to strengthen and expand the impact of APSGO.
Jeannette
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