posted by Hamza on May 2

I see one of the main challenges of a grass roots campaign is the ability to convey and create a sense of urgency in energizing and empowering all stakeholders to positively affect the change that we desperately need in our organization.

We must not become complacent in our attitudes and get bogged down by past practices that have not served us well.  Keep in mind that a mindset of complacency only serves to maintain — and not - change - the status quo.  I also believe that the goal to maintain the status quo is held firmly in place by those who would ultimately lose personal power and privileges if things were to change.

At this time in CFA, we are at a critical crossroads.  Most of us realize that we cannot continue as an organization with a business-as-usual-mindset.  To add to CFA’s uncertain future is our world’s present economic climate.  We do not fully understand what it means to compete in a global recession and a global post-recession economy.  But I do know this when it comes to change: We must be proactive in our attitude towards change and not wait idly for things to change.

You may not be sure exactly what you should be doing to eliminate a status quo mindset and bring about change that CFA desperately needs?  You may, at times, have even felt powerless?

I assure you that the feelings of hopelessness or powerlessness are not based on fact.  Next time you are at a show; look across the show hall.  The power lies in that show hall.  We, you and I, are the foundation of this organization.  You and I and our catteries will bear the burden and face the consequences of poor financial decisions.

The first step of a grass roots movement is to realize that we have the power and the ability to bring about change.  We must put our differences behind us and unify to achieve our objectives.  The second step is to responsibly use our collective power and work together to bring about the change we desire.  What does a grass roots movement have to do with my campaign?  It’s simple.

I am running a grass roots campaign, because:
• I want to bring about change.
• I want to make CFA fiscally viable.
• I want to bring fairness and ethics to the heart of this organization.
• I want to make CFA a world class organization rivaling the success of AKC.
• I want to make CFA responsive to the needs of ALL its members.

I believe that the key elements of a grass roots campaign that I have outlined above are what we ALL want.  For several years in the show halls, I have been listening to your concerns and to your goals for CFA’s future.

I understand what you are saying and where you are coming from.  However, I know I cannot bring about change by myself.  I need your help.

If you truly want to change the status quo, get involved with my campaign!  That’s the fun of a grass roots campaign: people banding together to implement their plan for change, working hard and then watching as their ideals gain momentum.

We start now–A spark that grows into a fire that is fanned by the winds of change.  We have a bright future if we dare to reach out and grab the brass ring.  Change does not just happen.  It will not just fall into our laps.  We must stand up and in our own interests affect change for the better.

This is our time!  Get involved!! I want and need – everyone’s help. Together we can achieve our goals and make CFA something special in a competitive new marketplace.

We are now just a spark!

Can we grow into a fire that is fanned by the winds of change?

I think we can!

Warmest Regards,

Jerry