March 16, 2020
Stronger Together
Dear Colleagues,
The Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) has touched the lives and businesses of our friends and colleagues across the globe in the meetings and events industry. During this extraordinary time, we are all called upon to support each other and those dealing with the outbreak in various settings on the front line.
In an effort to slow the transmission of the virus and protect our communities, governments around the world are suggesting groups of all sizes not meet. Non-essential travel is not encouraged. This decision will deeply impact the majority of us. There is no question that we are facing challenging times ahead.
We Are Here For You
We are here if anyone has questions, concerns, or ideas on how we can best serve you. As we all work through immediate needs and challenges, do not hesitate to reach out for help in any way shape or form. We also encourage you to join the PCMA Catalyst Forum. It is a great resource to connect with other planners and suppliers and find support.
Your Trusted Meeting & Event Resources
ILEA, MPI, and PCMA, as well as the MMBC, have dedicated online resource pages, providing you with up-to-date information on COVID-19. We encourage you to bookmark these pages and visit them regularly to get educated and informed with the latest news.
ILEA Updates on COVID-19 & Resources
MPI Coronavirus Resources Page
PCMA What Events Professionals Need to Know about COVID-19
Take Care of Yourself
We want to urge our members in the next days and weeks to take this seriously. Follow the guidance from the Public Health Agency of Canada and the Alberta Covid-19 information page.
Wash your hands, do not touch your face, and stay home. If you have recently traveled outside of Canada you are required to self-isolate for 14 days. As Calgary’s mayor said, “Clean hands, clear heads, open hearts”.
PCMA Canada West in Alberta
While we had been in the midst of organizing some great new chapter events in Alberta, those are now on hold. We’re exploring some alternative options but in the meantime, don’t forget about the great educational options on PCMA’s website. If you’re like some of us, you have some free time this spring and now might be a good time to catch up on some webinars that you may have missed!
We look forward to a time when we can meet again, but in the meantime, let’s remember to be kind and patient, informed and calm, and most of all, to stand together. The events industry was built on a platform of resilience, and we will come back stronger!
Sincerely,
PCMA Canada West Chapter
Shawn Cheng, President
[email protected]
