Dear Docent Family,
It’s a new year—we have finally put 2020 behind us! And as we begin 2021, I am filled with both optimism and and a lingering pessimism. I’m fluctuating wildly between “It’s getting better….it’ll be okay!” and “This is awful, will the world ever return to some form of normalcy?” I know I’m not alone in these feelings. So let’s address these questions with respect to CAC.
Why am I optimistic for 2021 for CAC? The organization has pivoted to this new world in a stellar way. We have implemented a slimmer profile and worked hard to increase our development arm. Historically, most of our revenue has come from tours and CAC exhibits, but now we are relying more on donors. Our development staff have made an impressive adjustment by tapping into new funding streams until we can resume our revenue-generating activities. Docents, have pivoted to create online content that will continue in 2021. There will be more CAC@Home offerings with presentations and online tours. This is critically important for keeping our members engaged (and renewing!).
Why am I pessimistic? The distribution of the vaccine has been slower than we hoped. The numbers related to infections and deaths continue to grow. Even as Chicago’s numbers improve, the same will have to be true across the country and world. This will require incredible patience on our part as we anticipate more widespread vaccinations.
What does this mean and what should we prepare for? In addition to patience, we must be ready when the situation improves. Keeping up with your tour directors, reading about what is happening to buildings on your tours, reviewing your notes for your tours to stay “current”—these are all very important. While we are all VERY talented, it is hard to give a tour after a long absence. So, think about practicing at home. Or, once we can go outside, take someone from your household out on a tour you can safely give, just to practice!
Though I fluctuate between optimism and pessimism, I hold tight to those things that have not changed–my family and friends and my docent family. I am so thankful for all of you. We will keep moving forward, working together to get back to where we want to be! Optimism wins out!
Kent.