A Message from the President
Perhaps the most challenging responsibility for anyone charged with leading an organization is the balance of income and expenses. Revenue sources are not limitless. Fixed costs rise with everything else in society. Investments are necessary to grow the organization and improve member services. Expenditures now can pay dividends in the future. Thus, these are the most challenging decisions for your MVPA Board of Directors.
The difficult budget conditions and economic recession of the last year have prompted the MVPA Directors and headquarters staff to accelerate cost savings actions in many areas. A complete review of printing and postage costs for Army Motors and Supply Line resulted in several changes that allowed expanded content and higher quality graphics (as is evident in this issue of Supply Line) while maintaining similar per issue costs. This is a great example of creating more for less.
At the same time, investments that promote our enthusiasm for historic military vehicles, assist MVPA affiliates, and bring members together to share their hobby are fundamental to the mission of the MVPA and the best interests of its members. Abandoning that foundation is not an option, even in challenging times.
Maintaining the affiliate insurance program, to help reduce the cost of insurance coverage acquired by MVPA affiliates; presenting the annual international convention—as just occurred at Evansville, IN—to bring together worldwide members with many of the finest HMVs in existence; and, sponsoring iconic events such as the 2009 Transcontinental Motor Convoy (TMC ’09) that pay homage to history and bring HMVs to the public. These are all examples of where the MVPA commits resources and fulfills its Mission.
Likewise, there are investments that are less visible, but pay off with increased productivity, better service for members, and simplified operations. These include moves to update computer equipment for improvements in administrative functions, website capabilities, and renewed efforts at monitoring legislative activities. Perhaps not glamorous, but vital to a healthy and responsive organization.
Even with costs monitored and new revenue sources explored, from time to time member’s dues levels must be examined. The last member dues increase was roughly six years ago. Much has changed during those six years including the cost of everything from postage to insurance to office equipment. With that in mind, the MVPA Board of Directors voted at its 2009 Summer Meeting to raise member dues effective with the October 2009 renewal notices. This decision followed several months of discussion and financial review that closely examined expenses, revenue, and appropriate levels for member dues.
For most members, the dues increase is $5 annually, with overseas and members receiving First Class mailing having a slightly larger increase due to postage costs. Each category has different costs, particularly in publication postage, requiring appropriate adjustments to each dues level based on the services provided. Should you have any questions regarding these changes, please don’t hesitate to contact me or any of your MVPA Directors. Thank you for your continued support of the MVPA and the historic military vehicle hobby.
David Welch
MVPA President
The difficult budget conditions and economic recession of the last year have prompted the MVPA Directors and headquarters staff to accelerate cost savings actions in many areas. A complete review of printing and postage costs for Army Motors and Supply Line resulted in several changes that allowed expanded content and higher quality graphics (as is evident in this issue of Supply Line) while maintaining similar per issue costs. This is a great example of creating more for less.
At the same time, investments that promote our enthusiasm for historic military vehicles, assist MVPA affiliates, and bring members together to share their hobby are fundamental to the mission of the MVPA and the best interests of its members. Abandoning that foundation is not an option, even in challenging times.
Maintaining the affiliate insurance program, to help reduce the cost of insurance coverage acquired by MVPA affiliates; presenting the annual international convention—as just occurred at Evansville, IN—to bring together worldwide members with many of the finest HMVs in existence; and, sponsoring iconic events such as the 2009 Transcontinental Motor Convoy (TMC ’09) that pay homage to history and bring HMVs to the public. These are all examples of where the MVPA commits resources and fulfills its Mission.
Likewise, there are investments that are less visible, but pay off with increased productivity, better service for members, and simplified operations. These include moves to update computer equipment for improvements in administrative functions, website capabilities, and renewed efforts at monitoring legislative activities. Perhaps not glamorous, but vital to a healthy and responsive organization.
Even with costs monitored and new revenue sources explored, from time to time member’s dues levels must be examined. The last member dues increase was roughly six years ago. Much has changed during those six years including the cost of everything from postage to insurance to office equipment. With that in mind, the MVPA Board of Directors voted at its 2009 Summer Meeting to raise member dues effective with the October 2009 renewal notices. This decision followed several months of discussion and financial review that closely examined expenses, revenue, and appropriate levels for member dues.
For most members, the dues increase is $5 annually, with overseas and members receiving First Class mailing having a slightly larger increase due to postage costs. Each category has different costs, particularly in publication postage, requiring appropriate adjustments to each dues level based on the services provided. Should you have any questions regarding these changes, please don’t hesitate to contact me or any of your MVPA Directors. Thank you for your continued support of the MVPA and the historic military vehicle hobby.
David Welch
MVPA President