CWA Members –
As we close 2024, and head into the New Year, I wanted to look back at all we accomplished as an association and update you on our plans for 2025.
I know this has been an incredibly challenging year for many of you as the industry experienced an unexpected slowdown. This has not only impacted our membership, but also our ability as an association to fund our events. Nonetheless, we persevered and made remarkable achievements, thanks to your unwavering support and the generosity of our sponsors.
In fact, without the generosity of our sponsors, the Annual Golf Tournament would not have been as successful as it has been in past years. Though we narrowed the field to one golf course of players, we had a wonderful time and were still able to donate $15,000 to our Charity Partner, Victory Junction, at the event. This, plus the additional $15,000 we donated at the Holiday Social, put us over the $300,000 mark since we partnered with them over 10 years ago.
We also were able to give $3,000 each to The First Tee and Preston’s League as well as a truckload of gifts to Toys for Tots. However, I was completely blown away by the generosity you showed with our partners for the victims of Hurricane Helene that resulted in 62 pallets of goods being delivered to those in need. The words “Thank you” feel so inadequate when I think about all you have done, especially during this difficult year, to help so many organizations and people.
As we look ahead to 2025, there is much to report regarding the future of our organization and its governance. Significant changes and opportunities lie on the horizon, and we are committed to ensuring a smooth transition and continued success.
We are currently in the process of interviewing candidates for the available Board seats. This is an exciting opportunity for individuals who are enthusiastic about contributing to the strategic direction and oversight of our organization. If you are interested in joining the Board of Directors, please click HERE and complete the survey by Monday, December 23rd.
Ashley Jackson, the Secretary of the Board, has stepped down from her position. Moreover, most of the remaining Board members plan to step down by the end of 2025. Their contributions have been invaluable, and we appreciate their commitment to the organization’s mission and vision.
I have had the honor of serving as President of the Board for eleven years and I have witnessed remarkable growth and progress. However this year shakes out, I will continue try to raise the bar until a proper transition is in place and other leaders step up with fresh perspectives and ideas to our team. This transition will usher in a new era of innovation and progress.
In preparation for the incoming Board members, new bylaws are being created to align with our evolving needs and goals. These bylaws will ensure that the new Board is equipped with the guidelines and frameworks necessary to lead effectively. We are committed to a seamless handover and the continuity of our strategic initiatives.
Regarding events in 2025, we are hoping to return to Pinehurst for our Annual Golf Tournament in 2025, although we will not be able to play at Pinehurst Golf Club. We have tried to negotiate a way to get back there, but since they hosted the U.S. Open, their room rates have increased significantly. We are currently speaking with Pine Needles and some other courses in the area and will update you as soon as details become available.
Other than the tournament, we are looking to host an Education Event, a Networking Social at the Music Movement Golf Tournament in Charleston, numerous Pop-up Socials throughout North & South Carolina, and end the year with our Holiday Social at the Angus Barn in Raleigh. Please be on the lookout for emails regarding each of these events.
In conclusion, 2024 was a year filled with challenges and triumphs, and I am incredibly proud of how we came together as an association to support each other and make a positive impact in our community. As we move forward into 2025, I am filled with optimism and excitement for the future. Together, we will continue to achieve great things and make a difference in the lives of our members and the broader community.
Danny…