How Many AMTA Volunteers does it take to change a lightbulb?

by Cassandra Stratton

Only ONE- but with the commitment, collaboration, and
encouragement of the whole team the bulb was brighter this time
around!

In September I attended the Chapter Volunteer Orientation Program
(CVOP) at the AMTA National 2017 Conference in Pasadena, CA.
This was my first conference as a Committee Chair and Delegate for
the State of Illinois and there was so much to learn. As a 17yr
massage veteran, I was ready to expand my contribution as a
volunteer, broaden my knowledge of what leadership means, and
massage my ideas of how to grow this group of lean, mean
therapeutic machines. In 3 days I had to absorb the knowledge of
those who have served before us and shape new ideas into action
items. With 100+ volunteers filling the conference rooms and
hallways, the energy was rich and the vibes were powerful. It was
apparent this group of AMTA volunteers had one common goalhow
to grow and better serve its members. However, this common
goal comes with a need for action. Our action to be a voice, to
encourage others, and to tighten our tribe of healers.

CVOP training brought new volunteers together to learn and share what it means to be a good leader.
Daily breakout sessions helped us define goals, implement budgets, and navigate success as a chapter.
Crucial topics included effective communication, branding, and volunteer fulfillment empowering us to
add a layer of creativity to engage our members and create a stronger support system.
To be sustainable as an organization like ours, we need the “how-to” in putting our ideas into action.
This program offered that platform in a clear, simple, and fun way. (I had no idea I could learn
leadership lessons from the “Shirtless Dancing Guy”. Google it!). It is exciting to know that there is more
we can do as volunteers, as members, and as massage therapists. We need to listen to the voice of our
fellow therapists, encourage change, and support our tribe. I am proud and grateful to be a part a team
that is leading the way for future growth of our profession and its members. By tightening our
community with more networking, outreach, and new therapist mentoring we can strengthen the
massage industry and the professional health of our brother and sisters.

Cassandra Stratton- AMTA IL -Government Relations Committee Chair- cstrattonamta@gmail.com