Contributed by Kenneth Appleby – Federation of Calgary Communities
Green Glow Sticks, check. Face Masks, check. Keeping people social distanced, check. It sounds like a rave, but actually, it’s an Annual General Meeting (AGM).
On Oct. 22, 2020 the Federation of Calgary Communities (FCC) will be hosting a one of a kind AGM. It’s drive-in style to ensure they exceed provincial COVID-19 safety guidelines, while meeting the legal requirements of our bylaws.
“Now that the ministerial order has lapsed, the annual general meeting provision in section 25 is no longer suspended… In other words, if a society chose to suspend the holding of their AGM during the pandemic, it is now time to resume the notice and meeting process provided…” said Yvonne Chenier, Integral Org, in a blog post on Aug. 18.
The FCC still had to hold an AGM, but their bylaws didn’t allow for a virtual one.
“They [the board] understood their legal obligation, to call an in-person meeting but collectively debated what is right, not wanting to put people at risk, versus what is legal as stated in our bylaws,” said Valerie Mushinski, President of the Federation.
That’s when they sought out alternatives.
“Looking for a creative solution that would satisfy both, they came up with a drive-in AGM concept where members would never leave their cars but would satisfy the in-person requirement,” said Leslie Evans, Executive Director, with a sparkle in her eye.
“Using large speakers, microphones, member’s cars, green glow lights and an FM transmitter, The Federation’s 2020 Drive-In AGM is going to be one of a kind. We hope to give organizations who are struggling to host their AGMs possible ideas.”
Test drive of AGM concept
On September 28, 2020, the Federation did a Drive-In board of governors meeting to test the Drive-In AGM concept.
“The Drive-In board meeting was a success,” said Evans.
“The board was pleased, and we are confident that our Drive-In AGM will work.”
The Drive-In AGM will take place at the Federation office, 720 28 St NE #110, from 7 to 9 p.m. on Oct. 22, 2020.
To properly protect staff and members from COVID-19, The Federation has taken all necessary safety measures to avoid a potential COVID-19 outbreak.
Anyone interested in being a part of this one of a kind AGM can register on the Federation’s website.
Oh, and yes, there will be popcorn – prepackaged, of course!
