Looking back, I can hardly believe that I will have served almost an entire year as president by the time you read this.  It certainly wasn’t the year I planned when I was elected, but I’ve learned more about this organization in the last year than in all the years since I first joined.  Not just about how the club is run or how it should be run. But about what you, the members, want from your elected leaders and representatives.  We’ve learned more about what you want from the Mercedes-Benz Club of America, what you experience as the best reasons to be a member, and what you recognize as the challenges that require attention.

The comments in many of our member surveys –and also in response to my messages – included references to the leadership, both at the Section and National levels. I hear from many sections how hard it is to get members to volunteer and join the board.  Many sections end up with the same leaders for long periods, and they either get “burned out” or end up stuck in a routine of doing the same thing every year.  Working together can bring in new ideas, give members a chance to change positions, take on different responsibilities, and demonstrate to new members that everyone is part of the team. 

I encourage everyone to volunteer in their section, either by helping with events, or running for a position on the board. At the National level, circumstances are much the same.  Regional Director positions are often uncontested at election time.  So, as we wait for this year’s election results, please know that it’s never too early to start planning for next year.  We need everyone to be involved in order to continue to grow and prosper. Consider volunteering, either at the section level or at the National level. Be part of our future.