Newsworthy (Spring 2010) - Retreating Helps Augusta-Richmond Move Forward
Augusta-Richmond leaders have turned to the Vinson Institute for five consecutive years to facilitate the commission’s annual planning retreat. This year’s event, held on June 9, centered on the organizational and administrative structures that will enable the commission to best serve the community.
“The current commission has come together with a renewed consensus of direction and community support. These leaders recognize that their next area of growth will be to review and update the charter and the structure of how the organization is managed to be more effective and responsive,” said Gordon Maner, Vinson Institute faculty member and long-time facilitator for the Augusta group’s retreats.
Discussing priorities in a retreat format—even if the location is right down the street—can be beneficial. “It is helpful to get away from familiar surroundings and distractions so that everyone involved can interact without the trappings of business as usual,” explained Maner. “The primary emphasis of a retreat is to be in a comfortable environment with a skilled facilitator who help focus the dialogue and who does not have a vested interest in the outcome. Issues and challenges can be addressed and plans formulated with all the players able to speak openly and honestly.”
“The Institute has facilitated our annual retreats with the quantifiably positive outcomes of the process increasing each year. They are a pleasure to work with, and their passion for improving the operation of local governments is truly impressive,” said Mayor Deke Copenhaver.
