Our team just wrapped a number of major conferences for our clients with several more on the horizon. These events bring together professionals from each of your industries to share ideas, connect, and to inspire. The trick is to maintain the momentum generated at the events to help advance the associations and for attendees to implement all that they took away from the event.
The last time we connected I was preparing to attend the Association Management Company (AMC) Institute’s annual meeting in Las Vegas. I too am now combing through my notes and finding ways to implement new ideas and to follow up with new connections I made. I’ll share two quick takeaways related to conference destination and venue selection.
SocialOffset
SocialOffset is an organization that, according to their website, “provides a socially conscious alternative to event and destination boycotts.” Increasingly, associations have struggled with hosting events in destinations that may have laws in place that are in conflict with the organization’s and/or its attendees’ values. Canceling a venue contract is often not an option, nor is boycotting a destination altogether. Through SocialOffset, associations can offer conference goers an opportunity to donate the equivalent of state and local taxes and fees their travel would provide a destination to vetted charities that align with the association’s values and culture.
MGM’s Mega Solar Array
Did you know MGM Resorts International’s mega solar array in Las Vegas produces up to 90% of daytime power needs for 13 of their properties? The array is the hospitality industry’s largest sourced renewable electricity project worldwide. Days before our arrival, Las Vegas played host to Super Bowl LVIII, which was powered entirely by renewable power. I was blown away by these facts and the efforts MGM is making toward their environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles. For associations who value ESG initiatives in their site selection process, the hospitality industry is responding and is happy to share information to help support conference attendee concerns and feedback on this front.
Before I go, I also wanted to send a hearty thank you to the volunteer leaders within each of our client associations. April is Global Volunteer Month. Each of the associations you represent need strong industry professionals to strategically lead the organizations into the future. Thank you for your time, your passion, and your energy in these key roles. It’s an honor to partner with you.
Until next time!
Cambria Happ, MPA, CAE
President
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