California + Minnesota Regional Training Forum (RTF) | 9.3.25 Coast-to-Coast Collaboration Ignites Service Passion
A combined RTF delivered a dynamic virtual event that brought “Service in Action” to life! Over 25 passionate training professionals came together to dive deep into the Why, What & How of service—sharing insights, swapping stories, and brainstorming fresh ideas in large group discussions, interactive breakouts, and a collaborative Google Doc. The event wrapped with an inspiring spotlight from Alycia Harshfield, President of the California Restaurant Foundation, who introduced powerful programs like ProStart and Restaurants Cares. A special note of thanks to our volunteer RTF Directors who collaborated to bring this impactful event to life: (Minneapolis) Nikki Fuchs de Calderon of New Perspective Senior Living and Donna Herbel of Blue Phoenix Learning, and (Southern California) Alie Gaffan of Pacifica Hotels and Michele Lange of IHOP.
PresidenTalks What’s In Your Conference Bag?
It’s conference season, people! The CHART 108 Conference may be over, but its impact is still going strong, amirite ? I’m headed to two additional conferences this month– how about you? In Redondo Beach, Past President Serah Morrissey asked if I had a band aid. Walking from one amazing breakout session to another had her working hard on a blister. I not only had one, it was the kind specifically for blisters. It helped make her conference experience a little better and made me feel like MacGyver without the paperclip and bubblegum!
So, while you may not document each outfit you plan to wear or keep a detailed “remember to pack” list like I do, a little planning ahead may just make your next conference experience that much better. Here are the top three things I don’t head to a conference without:
CHART President Kelly McCutcheon
1. ❤ Care Kit – Your needs may vary, but here are a few of my must-haves: Tiger Balm (seriously, you will be the conference HERO if you bring this), band aids (the good ones for blisters), hand sani (lots of hand shaking and hugs), lip balm (lots of talking), and facial masks (This is a game changer. All the late nights and early mornings might make me FEEL tired, but I’m not going to LOOK it!) 2. 🛍 Tote Bag – I am often an active conference contributor – moderating panels or leading breakout sessions. Somehow, I always find myself needing to cart things from here to there. I keep a tote handy for just such occasions. 3. 💌 Thank You Cards – Someone is going to make your conference experience memorable. Giving a personal note of gratitude before you depart is a great way to make a lasting impact.
Okay, now that your bag is packed, let’s talk about the MOST important thing you’re bringing to a conference: your mindset. As inspirational as they can be, the true purpose of a conference is to translate those ideas into tangible impact. You are halfway there if you set your intentions from the start. Ask yourself: • How can I contribute to and learn from this community? • What new connection, insight, or skill would make this a success for me? • What action am I ready to take post-conference? Setting clear intentions helps focus your energy and opens your mind to new possibilities. And that may just be the best thing you can put in your conference bag.
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