How can I help?
With the recent hurricanes in the gulf coast area our health department has received numerous calls from medical and non-medical individuals who have asked "How can I help?" I have had the same thoughts and feelings as I sure many of you have, "What can I do?", "How can I help?" In times of need it is our nature to want to lend a hand and help out and it is often those times, when we are helping, that we grow personally and professionally in significant ways.
A few years ago CEHA had a need and a colleague asked me if I could help out by serving as the Education Committee Chairperson. Other than being a member and attending many of the training programs they offered, I had never been involved with the leadership of association or even familiar with how it operates. After years of benefiting from CEHA I felt it was time to help out and so I agreed to take on the position.
That was three years ago and now as I prepare to take over as President of the association this November, I can say with sincerity, and a mild tinge of guilt, that the personal and professional growth I have experienced during this time far outweighs my time and efforts on behalf of CEHA. Each month having the opportunity to sit in on discussions regarding the environmental issues pending in the state continues to give me a broader perspective on my daily role and clarification on how these issues affect the profession as a whole. Just being able to hear the insight, wisdom and depth of understanding regarding these issues commanded by the board members I serve with is a monthly pleasure. I must admit that on some of these issues I still often feel like a 40 Watt bulb in a room full of lighthouses, but at least I'm up a few watts from the 15 Watt bulb I was when I started.
We once again are at a point where CEHA has a need and I wanted to take this opportunity to tell you how you can help. Two positions in the leadership of CEHA remain open after the recent round of requests for nominations; these positions are Vice President and Director. While this has happened in the past we are trying to make every effort to candidates nominated to fill these positions prior to our next annual meeting. We understand that these may not be positions that someone new in the field would be willing to take on at this point but, we know that we have many competent "seasoned" environmentalists among our membership who may be thinking that it is their time to step up to the plate and take their turn in service to CEHA. In terms of the commitment, the Vice President position is typically a four year commitment starting as VP then progressing through President-Elect, President and Immediate Past President. The Director position has a three year term and is an advisory position while serving on committees as directed by the President and association by-laws . These positions are typically filled by individuals who self-nominate themselves so if modesty was a concern of yours you need not worry.
If you are considering serving, I would simply ask that you email or call me at scleary@town.fairfield.ct.us or (203) 256-3020 if you wish to discuss the matter or if you would like a nominations form sent to you.
Sands L. Cleary
CEHA President-Elect
Legislation
For upcoming legislative initiatives, click on the CEHA LINKS page, and under the Connecticut, State of, see Connecticut genral Assembly. There you can find bills pertaining to well water, day care centers, licensing, indoor air quality, pesticides and many other issues that you should find of interest. If there are bills you wish CEHA to get involved in, please contact us.
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