What a year! THANK-YOU to all of our many volunteers, members and friends. 2016 has been a fabulous year and we are looking forward to even more adventures in 2017. Over the next few weeks we will be slowing down but, available if you need us. So on behalf of the IAP2 USA Board and staff we would like to wish everyone a wonderful holiday season. 

In this issue, you’ll find:

• FEATURES - President Leah Jaramillo challenging us to pause over this season, consider our accomplishments of the past year, and refresh ourselves for what the next twelve months might bring; announcing our new 2017-2019 Board directors; a Call for Volunteers for the 2017 Conference Committees; what’s happening with Chapters; and Student opportunities.
  
• EVENTS - A look at Social Media and digital engagement experiences in our December Webinar Rewind and a look ahead to January’s presentation on Participatory Budgeting; news about pro-d opportunities with the San Diego Skills Symposium gearing-up and the lineup of IAP2 Learning Webinars through next August!
  
• INTERESTING LINKS - Call for proposals, online platforms to boost citizen engagement, public dialogue in the Great Depression, Canada's plan for Open Government, and more...

Features

President’s Message – From Leah Jaramillo

2016 was a year of great progress for all of us in IAP2. I am proud to share some of the highlights with you!

Your Community
Your membership in IAP2 has created a nation-wide community of P2 practitioners and managers across the USA. Now, there are members like you in nearly all 50 states and 200 cities in the USA. Because of you, IAP2 USA is well on its way to a creating a community 1,000 members strong. One of our most important roles is to be your home for good ideas, inspiration, skill building, and networking.

Congratulations NEW Board Members

We would like to extend our sincere thank you to all candidates for running in our recent election. The results are in and the IAP2 USA Board looks forward to welcoming the following new 2017-2019 directors in January:

• Lisa Carlson, Denver, Colorado
• Kit Cole, Glendale, California
• Alex Cousins, Portland, Oregon
• Deanna Desedas, San Francisco, California
• Tina Geiselbrecht, Austin, Texas
• Steven Wolf, Omaha, Nebraska

We NEED you!
2017 IAP2 North American Conference Committees -
Volunteers Wanted

Have you ever wondered what goes into a Conference Program or how sessions are selected? Do you want to help select conference session speakers and poster exhibitors? If the answer is yes to these questions then consider volunteering for the Program Committee (click here to learn more about what is required).

While our world does not revolve around money it sure helps. The Sponsorship Committee plays a very important role in ensuring that IAP2 USA continues to receive funds – not only to support the Conference but events and activities all year long. Raising money is not for the faint of heart – are you up for the challenge? Click here for more information on the responsibilities of this Committee.

"I live in Denver or near by and I like to have FUN!"
If this is you then please consider volunteering for the Local Fun Committee. This committee helps to showcase Denver, make decisions on the opening reception, tours and so much more. We are expecting 350 people to attend the Denver Conference and this is your opportunity to show it off! Click here for more information.

I WANT TO VOLUNTEER – We are looking forward to you joining us. Please contact Jennifer at info@iap2usa.org with the subject line – Conference Volunteer by January 10th – we need your name, contact information and which committee you want to join. THANK-YOU!

Join the Fun in Denver – Save the Date!

Start planning to be in Denver, Colorado next September 6 to 8 for the 2017 North American Conference. Watch for announcements on theme, calls for presentation proposals, schedule-at-a-glance, and logistics to come.