As of this writing, almost all pandemic restrictions have been lifted in Ontario, and it is more or less business as usual. Large events like hockey, baseball, concerts, and conferences are back, and at ACMO, we are excited to be returning to in-person events starting next month. It’s hard to believe that it has been more than two years since we’ve seen each other in person! Will we all look the same?
Members around pre-pandemic understand the value of our in-person events. They are our best networking opportunity, learning, sharing and supporting fellow members – really the ‘secret sauce’ of any association. Notwithstanding this, the pandemic also taught us that virtual events are a valuable addition to our event lineup so members can conveniently participate regardless of where they live in Ontario. Going forward, we will offer a blend of virtual and in-person events.
Our first in-person event will be our ACMO Luncheon on June 24th at the Pearson Convention Centre in Brampton, following our usual format of an educational session followed by networking with exhibitors, lunch and new member recognition. We’ve planned a lively panel discussion on “Avoiding Reserve Fund Disasters.”
Next up, we expect a sell-out as members tee it up at Deer Creek GC in Ajax for our very popular annual GTA golf tournament on August 10th. It will be nice to socialize, relax and replace Ontario one divot at a time!
This fall will see the return of the industry-leading Condo Conference, conducted jointly by ACMO and CCI Toronto, held on September 30th and October 1st at the Beanfield and Enercare Centres at Exhibition Place in Toronto. After a two-year hiatus, we anticipate that pent-up demand will drive very strong attendance, sponsorship support and interest by exhibitors. The Condo Conference committee is working hard to put together a dynamic educational program, and this promises to be one of our best conferences to date.
Our last, but certainly not least, in-person event of the year will be our Annual ACMO Awards Luncheon on November 25th at the Pearson Convention Centre, where we recognize the best of our industry.
The other ‘in-person event’ I look forward to is re-opening ACMO’s newly renovated and refurnished offices at 2121 Argentia Road in Mississauga. We will trial a hybrid working model with staff coming into the office for two days and working from home for three days. After more than two years of working from home and virtual meetings, collaboration, creativity, and morale will be improved while giving staff more flexibility and work/life balance.
So, we’re back, and I’m looking forward to seeing all of you very soon!
