2006 New Generation Leadership Training
The Third Annual Progressive Action Network New Generation Leadership Training took place at The DeKoven Center in Racine, Wisconsin. Thirty-four canvass leaders gathered for a weekend of speeches, training sessions, recreation, and social time.
USAction Political Director Alan Charney challenged us to fight for programs most needed by the country really, like free college education for everyone.
PAN Director Barbara Helmick recognized Kim Drone, Dave Collier, Kari Reinke, and Chad Pichler, attendees who consistently meet standards.
Tamara Gigsby, Wisconsin state representative from the 18th Assembly District in Milwaukee, shared her experiences as a 30-year old, Black woman candidate and freshman legislator. She stressed how much she needs grass roots organizations to organize and educate people to make progressive issues the priority in state legislatures.
Marjie Henry and Michael Blanch facilitated a workshop on building staff.
Patty Snee and Natashja Skorupa helped canvassers chart a visual roadmap for staff development.
Barbara Helmick and Paula Barvin discussed canvass history and it’s impact on professional progressive political careers. Participants played the old memory game starting with “To build my office, I am going to...” People had to suggest something and also repeat everything that had been said before. We ended up with a list of 18 things canvassers could do to help build their offices.
A team-building exercise was organized by PAN Regional Director Nathasja Skorupa that included a 12-legged race and keeping-balloons-afloat contest. Paula Barvin and Melissa Dronen outlasted everyone else.
A wonderful sing-along was led by Michael Blanch, Regional Director and featured MPIRG’s Andy Shukle’s magnificent voice.
Marilyn Miller and Joyce Campbell from The Lutheran Human Resources Association led a session on “Widen the Circle: Understanding Ism’s.” They put people into a situation of being inside or outside the circle and then reflect on their experiences.