Today marks the 3rd anniversary of when the pandemic hit ASPECT. Three years ago today, we hosted our first virtual annual general meeting and had our first COVID-19 member discussion. By the following week, nearly all members had decided that their staff's health and safety came before their employment contract obligations and closed their doors.
 
Next, we saw the biggest pivot of all time! Employment workshops and services that were almost wholly in-person switched to online. Computers were scavenged from workshop rooms, laptop loaning programs and policies were created, and ingenious ways of helping those without internet access received thumb drives or laptops loaded with content. The generousity of members in sharing resources was outstanding as plans for virtual services were quickly implemented and running within about three weeks. All this while others were trying to figure out how to log in remotely.
 
Three years ago, my world of work seemed to have changed forever. During this time, ASPECT hosted 216 virtual meetings, webinars, and workshops, including two fully virtual conferences. It's been both a gift and a curse: a gift because we got to know our members and their needs better but a curse because it ratcheted up my workload substantially. However, we are doing interesting work that excites me to come to work every day. Our research projects, Competency of Virtual Services for CDPs and Refocusing the Urban Lens for Rural and Remote Employment Services, would not have been possible without the pandemic engagement from ASPECT members. Our member contributions to CERIC's business survey mobilization project, 10 Ways Employers Can Address Their Talent Needs by Partnering with Career Development Professionals, are outstanding in that it took the expertise of our provinces' CDPs to create a practical tool kit.
 
Although exciting and dynamic, innovation can be exhausting, especially for those among us supporting clients with increasing barriers to employment. That's why when additional funding for a much-needed resource was announced this week, I was so excited. BC's Hub for Workplace Mental Health has excellent resources and contacts designed for Community Social Services providers. Run by the Canadian Mental Health Association BC, I think you'll agree that they have compiled a good resource building on their BounceBack® program.
 
It has been a busy three years but also an incredibly rewarding period as we continue to adjust to the changes in the way we work and the new challenges, such as the ever-changing labour market, that lie ahead. Thank you to all of you who have been with me on this wild ride.

Janet Morris-Reade, CEO
ASPECT BC