�Contact me at david . feldner @ apdt . com
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Rapidly changing environment for dog trainers increases the need for volunteers
During 2021 , we had more than 50 members of the Association who volunteered to work on the APDT committees , task forces and teams . These members helped the Board and staff meet the goals of the 2021 strategic plan and helped to elevate the profession . With such a rapidly changing environment in and outside of the dog training and behavior community , the need for volunteers has never been greater .
The APDT Board and staff have been working on providing more information , direction and tools to the volunteers serving on the committees and task forces , along with those who have been appointed chair / co-chair / vice-chair of each group . We understand the importance of providing goal-driven initiatives and tangible tasks to each group to work on . We also value and respect your time serving as a volunteer .
I ’ ve asked volunteers over the year why they volunteered for a committee , task force or team . Following are some of their responses :
• “ I always wanted to volunteer with APDT , but never had the time . I took the plunge in 2021 and my time on the committee was time well spent .”
• “ It was very rewarding to see a project be completed from start to finish . I didn ’ t feel any burden or pressure working with the staff , chair and Board liaison , and actually , we made a great team !”
For 2022 , we are looking for volunteers from the APDT membership for the following groups :
• Conference Committee
• Diversity , Equity & Inclusion Team
• Education Committee
• Ethics Committee
• Finance Committee
• Marketing Committee
• Membership Task Force
You can go to https :// apdt . com / about / committees / to view the 2022 charters for each group and a link to the online form to volunteer . I hope that you will consider a volunteer opportunity in 2022 with APDT !
• “ I wanted to get involved being new to the organization , so I could meet some fellow trainers .”
• “ Dog training has been in my blood since I can remember . I knew that I had skills that the committee could use .”
• “ I was hesitant at first because of a bad experience volunteering for another organization . I don ’ t feel like my time was wasted with APDT and I know that I contributed to the outcomes of the committee .”
• “ My voice was heard , and I felt respected by the group .”
• “ I learned a lot about the APDT by working on the committee . I really enjoy our group and look forward to volunteering again in the new year .”
David Feldner , CAE Executive Director
The APDT Chronicle of the Dog | Winter 2021 9