New members need mentors. Who is a Mentor? Everyone! It is so important that we embrace new members. They are part of our future. Unfortunately we hear that new members are leaving the Auxiliary because they felt isolated, not welcome, or not in a clique, felt lost i the process, not knowing where to get training, or leadership of the Flotilla not welcoming them. Everyone of these issues we can change. I encourage all members to become that mentor. Help each other and make people feel welcome. Break down the cliques and be all inviting and open. Make new friends and use our Fourth cornerstone of Fellowship freely and often.
Since D-train was canceled, we found the first opportunity to do some new and exciting things such as, on Saturday, April 6th, 2019 we have planned a D1SR Awards luncheon at Ravello's in East Hanover, New Jersey. We will continue the important tradition of honoring our members for the great work we do.
In addition, our DCAPTs and highly qualified Member training staff are planning 4 Regional Based training events for, NY-N, NY-S, LIS-N and LIS-S. This will be a collaborative effort among our many programs and I am excited to see the results.
The DDC Special Events is coordinating our major events in D1SR. The Commodore and I have visited some of the events and we are truly impressed with our members. From our uniform appearance to the interaction with the public to our public affairs displays. Keep up the great work.
Let's all think Recruitment and let's all think Retention. At all of our events, program visits, patrols and social media sites, let's keep pushing the Recruitment button. We need more members. It's no secret. Everything we do, we should be attempting to "Tag" recruitment into our message and mission. Our Public Affairs team, and Human Resources ADSO-HR is working intensively to build a new Recruitment and Retention strategy for D1SR.
Leadership training continues to gain strength. The 2018 Leadership Development Academy was a huge success. If you have not, I encourage everyone to attend. and consider an AUXLAMS class
It is a humbling and exciting experience to be your Chief of Staff and I look forward to continuing to work with all of you in making this, the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary, the nations' greatest volunteer organization.
Respectfully,
Mark A. Stone
Mark A. Stone
Chief of Staff
First Southern District
Semper Paratus Shipmates!
Respectfully,
Mark Stone
Mark Stone
District Chief of Staff,
First District Southern Region
GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES FOR 2019
The first few months of 2019 have been a challenge for all.
What I have found more since accepting this position, is the
many great people in this organization. Our strength is in
our people, and our leaders are are now challenged to get
everyone involved. Be creative, be imaginative. Let's find a way for all to be involved, to recruit new members. Let's answer the question before asked.
District Chief of Staff's Message