EWI of Spokane News

2021 is here! We have all been ready for 2020 to end. I have so much hope for the upcoming year. While we all know that it will take some time for things to get back to “normal,” I have no doubt that 2021 will be better. But, for some of our member firms and representatives, the economic realities of today are very challenging. Now, more than ever, we need to live out our EWI mission of bringing together key individuals from diverse businesses for the purpose of: promoting member firms, enhancing personal and professional development, and encouraging community involvement.

As we come to the close of 2020, I am reminded of the fragility of life, health, and economic stability. I am also encouraged by the resiliency of human beings and our capacity for hope. Our Chapter representatives have experienced a lot of loss this year. It is comforting to know that belonging to an organization like EWI is a positive and important factor in our resiliency. We are social creatures, and being a part of a community like EWI is good for our mental health, in addition to being good for business. Even introverts like me benefit greatly by having strong connections and through focusing on helping others.      

Did anyone else’s mood soar while Dr. Aaron McMurray addressed our scholarship winners last month? He exuded positivity and it was contagious.  I’m so grateful we have people like him in our world to bring hope and enthusiasm.  Personally, I tend to fall on the pragmatic spectrum and I have to actively work on positivity. This year it seems especially challenging to be optimistic with the pandemic and with election fever all around.

A Zoom meeting for the board installation? Check. A Zoom meeting for the board retreat and training? Check. A Zoom meeting coming up for our Scholarship Banquet? Check. With so many Zoom meetings, it was emotionally fulfilling to visit with some of our representatives at Beacon Hill Catering & Events last week. This event refilled my proverbial cup and I think it was the same for everyone who attended. The sun shined and smiles beamed as we enjoyed each other’s company.

It’s been an honor and a privilege to serve this year; your kindness has been overwhelming. The dedication and love you all have for our EWI of Spokane Chapter and each other is simply heartwarming. I hope as we wrap up our EWI year, you are inspired to keep doing great things for this chapter and for YOU!