originally posted on 12/8/2023 7:41:00 PM
International Volunteer Day 2023 had ACE volunteers from various regions signing in to meet up and mix with each other in a digital event. Members in attendance introduced themselves and shared their region and the ways they are involved in ACE. The group
included regional reps and assistant reps plus members from various teams, including national social media teams; the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee; volunteer inclusion committee; Member Benefits Committee; and others. Members’ roles ranged
from those engaging in hours of volunteering each week, such as members of the Executive Committee, through some who volunteer yearly at Coaster Con. It was a great way to honor those who help even a few hours a year because every hour put into ACE
makes it better for everyone.
Photo: Adam Goodyke. View full-sized image.
Attendees spoke about some of the best ways they get information about ACE and how they could improve their connections to others in the club. There was discussion of new communication avenues that are potentially going to be offered to members as well
as some of the ways in which communication might shift with national events and in general. As ACE offers news through such a wide variety of avenues, there was a great deal to talk about here. With members of the ACE News editorial staff,
Facebook team and some other social media moderators in attendance, it was easy to speak about some of the details and differences these teams deal with in the course of their posting.
Discussion then moved away from communication to coasters, trips and events. The group spoke about some of the things that are sparking excitement in 2024. These included pretty much every national event on the schedule, including the ACE Journey to Central
Europe international trip, Coaster Con 45 and the ACE Preservation Conference in Iowa and Missouri. Many spoke too about the winter events that are upcoming, including No Coaster Con, CoasterBash!, Eastcoaster and Winterfest. These were mentioned
with excitement as ways to stay connected to ACE friends in a season in which there are fewer in-person riding events. Attendees were sharing fond memories of having discussions not only with other members but also with park reps and manufacturers.
In addition, some new coaster openings in 2024 are making many attendees animated, in anticipation of a few new credits.
Attendees also shared some of the ways in which they see ACE changing and how they want to stay connected. It was a very appreciative group, as thanks were extended all around for the various roles that are filled throughout the ACE org chart. Volunteers
who attended were then gifted with a digital Zoom background, marking them as an ACE volunteer for use in future meetings and digital events.
Photo: Jes Niemec. View full-sized image.
ACE members can find information on all upcoming digital events on the ACE calendar here. Information about volunteering can be found here, but keep
in mind that members must be logged in to view this page.
— Jes Niemiec
#ACE360