Welcome to Colorado Business Women! Here in Colorado, it seems that this year we have jumped headlong from summer into winter, with our early season snowstorm that dropped up to several feet of snow on trees that were still wearing their summer leaves. The weather has already warmed up again, but we know that "real" winter is just a few short weeks away. Change and transition are a part of the natural order of things.

As an organization, we are in a critical time of transition, as well. Having decided on a state level to sever our close ties with BPW/USA, we are now moving ahead into finding new and better ways to serve the women of our state and our individual communities. We are taking this opportunity to build on a legacy that spans over 90 years, carrying with us our history, our values, and our goals. We are looking closely at what we do, at what we can offer to our members, at ways we can act as a positive force in improving the lives of women and families.

This is an exciting time. The world around us is changing at lightning speed, and we need to be flexible, forward-thinking, and willing to face change head-on. As the 2009-2010 President of Colorado Business Women, I'd like to ask for your support in three areas:

First, now is the time for us to stand together as an organization. We need the ideas and perspectives of all of our members in order to survive and grow. Each member is a vital part of CBW as we move into the future. As the leadership of CBW, we can best serve by learning what you, our members, need, what you are interested in, and how you think we can become a stronger, more influential organization. Don't hesitate to contact any one of the Executive Team or your local leadership.

Second, take an active part in building this organization. Volunteer and leadership opportunities abound, and your energy and willingness to serve are absolutely critical to our success. We'd like to tap into your energy, draw on your ideas, and provide you with a chance to take on leadership responsibilities that will help you throughout your career. Step forward and join the Colorado Business Women team, and really make a difference. Again, the Executive Team and your local leadership want to hear from you.

Finally, be patient. Change is often slow and challenging, with unexpected hurdles along the way. Nobody gets it right the first time, but we learn as we go along and we come out the other side stronger and more capable than ever.

Helen Keller is quoted as saying, "Many persons have a wrong idea of what constitutes true happiness. It is not attained through self-gratification but through fidelity to a worthy purpose." I think that Colorado Business Women is a worthy purpose. I hope you do too.

Janet Canaan President, Colorado Business Women