On Thursday morning, Oct. 1, the first Membership Forum was held at the Roanoke Marriott. There were about 35 members in attendance. President Shirley Lyons introduced the agenda for the morning meeting by stating that MEMBERS are the key to VRA, a member association. The format for the forum was the dialogue – a method used to have open discussions without judgment and with no need for outcomes to be decided.

The questions presented to the members that generated discussion included what is the members’ perception of VRA? What do you expect from VRA? Why do members join and how can we generate new members wanting to join?

The discussion was slow to start but became very active, with many members joining in and voicing their opinions. There was give and take, with members often expressing opposing issues and yet, a willingness to hear what was being said and a true attempt to understand.

Although no outcomes were intended, there were several ideas for the new leadership to listen to and discuss while planning for next year. Many felt that Regional training should be a primary objective. It was felt that members should get a reduced rate for these trainings. Many felt social events or evening meetings should be attempted. The idea of regional breakdowns for all activities might be more beneficial.

Another idea that was generated was to conduct a survey to allow the entire membership to have a chance to respond. President Lyons agreed to follow through with this proposal in the next newsletter.

Overall, feedback was given and received that this was a positive part of the Collaborations Conference. It generated much discussion during the remainder of the conference. Most importantly, it gave MEMBERS an opportunity to voice their thoughts and opinions in an organized, yet risk-free environment.