Passing on the Torch…My Reflections on Being VATTA Chairperson
By Janet Charchuk
Well I have to say that I had some mixed feelings at our last VATTA meeting in Toronto at the end of January. At that time I had decided to step down as VATTA chairperson and pass on the torch to someone new. I thought it was time to do this because I will be finished my ten year term with VATTA in 2015. Someone else needed to take over but I plan to support them and share what I have learned with them. Part of me felt very sad because it reminded me that in another year I will be leaving such great people who have become my friends. But the other part of me felt relieved to know that as I get ready to move on … others will take up the torch and VATTA will be fine without me.
When I think back to when I started with VATTA in 2005 I can honestly say that I did not know how much I could accomplish. Since then I have attended annual conferences all across Canada and USA doing presentations and helping others become advocates. I have blogged and posted videos on YouTube, written many letters to important people, spoken up in my community, been interviewed by the media, developed leadership skills, and made life long friends. I am very proud of starting a strategic plan along with a vision and mission statement for VATTA.
As Matthew takes on the role of VATTA chairperson I want to say to him…congratulations and I know you will do a great job. I will be there to help and support you for the next year. If you have questions or concerns be sure to ask me. Remember to be a great role model and show great example to the committee. And be yourself… you are a great person!
So from the past chair and on behalf of the whole VATTA committee we welcome Matthew as our chair person!! This is your time enjoy it.
