Fall Workshop: Call for Presentation/Session proposals – Due May 15th

From RG Absher, Chair of the Fall Workshop Committee: 

I’m excited about the prospect of the Overmountain Victory Trail Association (OVTA) hosting the PNTS National Trails Workshop in Spartanburg, South Carolina on October 26th – 30th, 2020. This workshop is intended to serve the interests of both national historic and national scenic trails.

Last month, PNTS Leadership made the difficult decision to cancel the Spring Workshop scheduled for May amid growing concerns of COVID-19. Our planning committee is very much aware of the coronavirus pandemic and limitations placed on travel and gatherings to protect the health and welfare of individuals and communities. We will continue to monitor this crisis very closely over the coming weeks.

I am reaching out today because we understand that you might have a topic or topics appropriate for the fall workshop to further the development of our Nationals Trails System.

Call for presentation/session proposals
At this time, our workshop planning committee is very excited to seek your proposals for presentations on October 27th, 28th, or 29th. Plan B would be to implement this workshop virtually so please note that the linked form will ask whether your presentation/session could be done virtually if the need arises.

Please complete the FORM linked here by May 15th 2020. The Committee plans to discuss all the proposed sessions/presentations at a meeting in late May. Questions regarding the form should be directed to Liz Wessel at: liz@pnts.org or 608.204.2717.

Overarching themes
In 2020, PNTS will increase the capacity and skills of its member organizations through a fall workshop in Spartanburg, South Carolina. The workshop will focus on integrating best practices among organizations. In particular, the workshop will highlight strategies related to the following overarching themes. Please note that in the form, you will be asked to select which theme your proposal falls under.

– Advancing Justice, Equity, Diversity, Inclusion
– Expanding Partnerships Within and Beyond Trail Corridors
– Increasing Capacity Through Organizational Development

Again, thank you for expressing willingness to offer a presentation(s) for the fall PNTS workshop by completing the form. And a reminder that the deadline is May 15th for proposals.

Please let me know if you have any questions. We look forward to receiving your proposals!

RG Absher
Chair – PNTS Fall Workshop Committee
Overmountain Victory Trail Association
absher-r@juno.com / 336-902-1760