We are very excited about our conference this year and are delighted to be helping host the 2013 Director's Conference in conjunction with our normal chapter conference.
Our conference will be held on Jekyll Island at the beautiful Jekyll Island Club Hotel. Not only does the hotel offer a beautiful place to stay and plenty of meeting space for us, it also puts us right in the heart of historic Jekyll Island with plenty to see and do. In addition, we'll be close to some great historic sites and have some great diversions planned.
Director's Conference (DNR Staff Members)
The Director's conference will begin promptly at 10:00AM on Thursday, February 21. Staff members may begin arriving on Wednesday evening for early registration. Dinner will be provided.
Staff members should plan to stay until Saturday, February 23.
If you have any questions, please see the email from Director Kelley, speak with your management or give us a call at the Friends office at 770-383-8900.
DNR Staff Members can register for the Director's Conference by clicking here.
Friends Conference (Chapter leaders & volunteers)
Chapter leaders and volunteers will enjoy this year's conference, which is packed with networking opportunities, great sessions on chapter building and operations, as well as some time to have a little fun. The Friends conference officially begins at 2:00PM on Friday, February 22 but attendees are invited to the DNR Awards Ceremony luncheon which will be at noon prior to the start of the conference. Attendees should plan to stay through 11:00AM on Sunday, February 24. Those who are substantial driving distance from Jekyll Island are welcome to arrive Thursday evening for early registration. Dinner on Thursday will be included.
Chapter leaders and volunteers may register for the conference by clicking here.
Chapter Gallery replaced by Silent Auction
In previous years, we have asked each chapter to bring a display of chapter accomplishments to the conference. This year, with the extended travel for most attendees, we have decided to replace the gallery with a silent auction. You are still welcome to bring a display if you wish.
The silent auction is a great opportunity for you to raise a little money for your chapter to help offset the costs of attendance. Your chapter should put together an item or items to be auctioned. The value of the item should not exceed $400. Throughout the conference, we will have your items on display. At the end of the auction, your chapter will receive any funds generated by your auction item! It is a great way to try a very popular fundraiser and see how they work!
We look forward to another great conference this year!
Below are some frequently asked questions and their answers:
Q: Can chapter funds be used to pay for attendees to the conference?
A: Yes. Training and regular development of chapter leaders is critical to the success of our chapters and our organization as a whole. Chapter funds can be used to fund participation in the conference.
Q: How many people can attend from each chapter?
A: We recommend that at least two people from each chapter attend. However, several chapters have sent four or more delegates in the past and have found it very valuable.
Q: Our chapter has limited funds but we want to send someone to the conference. Is there help available?
A: Yes. For chapters with limited funding, we have scholarships available to cover two attendees (if sharing a room). Contact the Friends office for more information if your chapter needs a scholarship. There are a limited number of scholarships available on a first come first serve basis.
If you have any questions not answered here, you can drop us an email or call the Friends office at 770-383-8900.