Overcoming Natural Disaster and Continuing its Commitment to Excellence 

The ASTD Baton Rouge (ASTD-BR) Chapter, ASTD’s first chapter, has accomplished a whirlwind of activity this year. In the wake of a natural disaster, the chapter surpassed its goals and expectations by introducing innovations in the areas of enhancing member programs, improving communications, and developing a risk management plan.

Promoting Value
ASTD-BR Chapter leaders appreciated their historical significance within the ASTD community. This year, they hosted a March workshop featuring a popular industry expert, attracting 195 participants. This successful event positively impacted membership numbers and member/community satisfaction. Based on the outcome of the event, future plans are in progress, including a new program, webinar, and workshop schedule and the introduction of new Special Interest Groups (SIGs), which the chapter feels will add greater value to their membership benefits.

Communicating with Members
To maximize their chapter’s web communication, ASTD-BR utilized the tips provided in their 2007 SOS, “Preparing the ASTD-BR Community for New Website Launch,” to make their site easier to use for members, customers, and volunteers. More information about ASTD-BR Chapter’s SOS can be found here. To coincide with the new look and feel of their website, the chapter revamped their communications pieces, including their monthly “e-zine,” making the newsletter more streamlined and user friendly for members.

Developing Emergency Preparedness for Natural Disasters

Still riding the workplace learning hurricane set off by Katrina, ASTD-BR Chapter has paid particular attention to emergency preparedness for natural disasters. This year, ASTD-BR organized a Risk Management Committee to identify potential safety and security hazards for the chapter and its membership. The Committee plans on formulating prevention and response checklists and procedures, preparing the chapter to meet increasing and unusual challenges.

Thank You!

Informal goals established by the ASTD-BR board, but not publicized with the membership, were to receive SOS recognition and to be recognized as a Chapter of the Month. ASTD-BR Chapter is honored and delighted to have achieved both in 2007. As ASTD-BR continues to grow the chapter and provide enhanced benefits to its members, Chapter #1 is continuing to strive to be #1.