I understand that you are interested in producing a convention. I am sending the attached because it might be helpful to you and your club in your considerations. I also offer some views -- these are my own and do not necessarily those of the AGA.
I think everyone that works on a convention says afterward, "Wow, that was a lot more work than I expected." That doesn't mean that it can't be fun and rewarding, but the amount of elbow grease required is considerable and tends to thin the ranks of volunteers over time.
A solid, dedicated core of staff is critical to success. In my experience, many more are likely to volunteer than will follow through -- that is the nature of volunteer work, in general, not just for aquatic clubs, but any volunteer endeavors. So finding the dedicated core staff that will lead the effort, maintain focus, and fill in the staffing-holes as they pop up -- that is, in my opinion, the most important step. Okay, enough with the lecture, already.
This attached doc covers the basics for planning a convention and you might find it useful as a guideline. It is the document the AGA used when it had local clubs hosting the AGA conventions (2003, 2004, & 2006). There are certain difficulties with the Parent/Local Host model. I think the AGA has eschewed the basic Parent/Local Host model that it has used in the past in favor of more or less directly producing conventions itself. I'm not sure how that will actually play out. When AGA pick the location for 2007, it certainly will be looking for local "ground support," which will be vital to a convention.
It is probably best for a local club to try a small convention before undertaking a large one. Also, if your a local club hasn't produced a convention before, it also can be helpful for some members to work on the planning and production of another organization's convention to bring some experience into your organization.
Let me know if you have any other questions. I will try to help if I can.
sh
* * * * * * * * *
-------- Original Message --------
Hey Cheryl,
There has been some talk in our club about what conventions to bid on in the upcoming years, and we were interested to know more about what all went into the AGA Convention. From what I saw in SF, it was very well organized and we're trying to get a feel for just HOW much work that was. I think Indy has a lot to offer, a good central location, and an ever growing number of plant geeks within the CCAC. If we are able to do it and do it well, it is something that I am very enthusiastic about and would love to make a reality.
Could you give us a bit more insight into some of the planning, volunteer numbers, and resources needed? I CC'd some of our board members. If there is anyone else that I should be asking, just
let me know.
Thanks so much!
- Jen