A Word from the Network Chair: So Long, Farewell, Auf Wiedersehen, Goodbye to 2020
By Meaghan Joyce
As we prepare to turn the page on 2020, I cannot help but think of one of my favorite scenes from The Sound of Music: when the Von Trapp family children say goodnight to party guests with a catchy tune and silly dance routine. This year is one that will not easily be forgotten because of the personal and professional challenges and lessons we learned.
The pandemic forced many of us to slow down and focus our energy and resources on the things that matter most: family, friends, neighbors, customers, colleagues, members, donors and advocates. Our advocacy efforts shifted toward critical priorities like keeping people safe, saving lives, developing vaccines and therapeutics, preserving the supply chain, stabilizing the economy and feeding the hungry. All the while, we encouraged employees and members to contribute to our PACs, virtually engage with candidates running for office and safely participate in a historic election that saw record voter turnout.
A new year signals a new beginning, and 2021 will present a lot of “new” – President, Vice President, Administration and a narrowly held Congress with at least 66 Freshmen. State legislatures and commissions will undertake the reapportionment and redistricting process that could shift the political dynamics in many states for the next 10 years. In addition, 38 states – that’s nearly three-quarters of all states – will elect Governors during the 2022 election cycle. I see nothing but opportunity ahead for PAC and advocacy professionals to educate and engage donors and advocates on the issues that matter to our companies and associations. With the beginning of a new 2022 election cycle upon us, the time has come for me to say “adieu” and pass the torch to the next PIN Chair. We have so many wonderful leaders in our network, and I am excited to work with our next PIN Chair in 2021.
Happy holidays! My wish for you is to take time to unplug, reflect, get outside, breathe deeply and recharge for the year ahead.
So long, farewell, auf Wiedersehen, goodbye
I leave and heave a sigh and say goodbye – Goodbye![/vc_toggle]
Register Today for the National PAC Conference
The National PAC Conference is going virtual! We’ve taken what we’ve learned from the past year, and developed an agenda to drive success in the coming year. It’s content tailored for what you need right now. Register by the January 28 early bird deadline to get the best rate!
End of Year COVID-19 and Your PAC Survey
The COVID-19 health crisis and a critical election year have created a tough environment. But we are continuously impressed by the community’s ability to creatively adapt! One of the ways in which the Council has provided value throughout COVID is by collecting and sharing data on how organizations are responding. We are currently conducting our third COVID-19 and Your PAC survey and would appreciate your valuable feedback. The survey is completely anonymous, and we will be sharing the results in the New Year.
2021 Outstanding PAC Awards
The deadline for the 2021 Outstanding PAC Awards has been extended to January 8. It’s more important than ever to celebrate excellence and ingenuity. Nominate yourself, a colleague or a peer! The winner will be announced during the 2021 Virtual PAC Conference, receive two complimentary registrations to the conference as well as a 2021 Council workshop, and be featured in Council communications throughout the year.
New Council Connect Feature!
Please take a brief moment to answer our first Council Connect poll question. We want to learn more about your year-end PAC receipts – something we are all curious about. We are planning more polls in 2021, so let us know if you have ideas for questions to be featured.
Thank You and Happy Holidays from Us
Thank you to our wonderful members and the Political Involvement Community for staying involved, sharing ideas and working together through 2020. We appreciate you and are looking forward to a wonderful 2021!