President's Letter: How Do You Spell Community? I-L-E-A
Friday, October 27, 2017
Over the past months, the events industry, including many of our members and chapters, have been impacted by hurricanes, shootings and wildfires. These instances have been devastating for the communities surrounding them and one cannot begin to put themselves into the shoes of others. My heart is full of inspiration to see how our event community comes together in unity and support, and I am honored to be a part of such a welcoming and compassionate organization who looks out for each other.
In Houston, ILEA members were some of the first to volunteer at local shelters, contribute funds to Hurricane Harvey relief efforts, and step up to rescue those stranded. Some members donated their catering services to feed volunteers working around the clock. I’m proud to have recently attended an ILEA Houston chapter event and witness their strength firsthand. They are clearly a strong chapter with a will to carry on, and carry on they will!
ILEA Orlando held a charity event last month where a portion of the proceeds was donated to the SEARCH Foundation – an organization that offers assistance to event professionals in need and, in particular, businesses who were directly impacted by Hurricane Irma. The ILEA network is strong with many members from around the country offering a place to stay for those who evacuated.
In Las Vegas, event safety and security was top of mind for all after the tragic shooting at a local concert. ILEA Las Vegas members stood by the victims, family members and first responders in an effort to make a difference. At a recent Events Industry Council meeting and through IMEX America, the #vegasstrong message was felt as we work to support our colleagues.
And most recently, a portion of California was devastated by fast-burning wildfires. ILEA Napa-Sonoma stands tall and is still a beautiful destination for events and weddings. The businesses in the Napa-Sonoma region need your ongoing business. You can help by continuing to book your event in Napa- Sonoma and please, continue to buy and drink wine from the region to support the local economy. You can learn more in this Experience article with ILEA Napa-Sonoma President Heather Vieira.
In the years I’ve been involved with ILEA, I’ve never been prouder to be a member of this organization that truly embodies the word community. In times of need, our members around the world have banded together to support one another, each other’s businesses and the local areas in which we do business. I’m so impressed by the way ILEA has supported the events industry during these difficult times. Thank you for your support!
Until next time...
Ingrid Nagy, CSEP
ILEA President
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