Blog

By Susan Rinne
President, APSE Board of Directors

I am so excited to see you all in Philly in just a few short months. It seems every year the offerings at the APSE conference get better. Believe it or not (I can hardly believe it) this will be my 24th conference. I missed Las Vegas and Memphis, but have been to every other conference since Denver. Each and every time, I get excited about learning something new and am never disappointed. This is BY FAR the best collection of information on promoting Employment First for EVERYONE. So even though this is my 24th year, I can’t wait to see you there.

In these days of easy access, online information and webinars you might be asking yourself why coming to a conference is important. Here are five reasons you need to get out from behind your desk and join me and other APSE members this summer.

1. Renew your excitement about the work you do. As I noted, it helps so much to be with others who believe strongly in employment for all. Just knowing there are others as committed as you are and who will provide you with GREAT ideas on how to make that happen. Getting out and hearing from people who are doing what you do, but differently, can reignite your enthusiasm.
2. Meet online friends and colleagues face to face. We all have the ability to make strong, positive, professional connections using digital technology today. Meeting those you have networked with on LinkedIn or Twitter can lead to an even deeper connection and understanding of the resources they may bring you.
3. Learn industry trends and how they’re implemented. APSE specializes in finding compelling subject matter and top-notch speakers. There are state policy makers, families, people with disabilities, researchers, and providers there talking about best practice and giving you something valuable to bring back, and apply, to your own work.
4. Make connections with new vendors and learn about products and services. There will be many exhibitors at the APSE conference. They cover a wide variety of products and services, software, educational material, data collection ideas, business development, etc. Making connections with these resources can be invaluable.
5. Get out of Dodge and just have fun. While this last reason may not be at the top of the list for your manager, boss or client, people who include fun in their lives tend to be happier, healthier and less stressed. Think of the fun factor as an investment in your own health and well-being.

As you can see, there are tremendous and very real benefits to leaving your workplace. If you have not already, Register today! I can’t wait to meet you in Philly.