President’s Message: A future of participation - by Edmund Allcock

Some of us may think that the pandemic has required us to put aside the future and focus on the present, however, our use of remote technology may have developed a future plan for participation.  As I look back on 2020, we were and continue to establish a plan for the future… it’s just hard to see it as it is unfolding.

I had a very different plan for 2020 as a professional, a person and as president of CAINE; the chapter had a different agenda; and I am sure each and every member had different goals.  We all pivoted, adapted and I believe succeeded in not only achieving some goals, but in the process also laid a foundation for the future.

While some of us may be frustrated with the frequency of virtual meetings, I have noticed that participation is at an all-time high.  In that regard, our response to the pandemic has been a positive development in planning for our future.  While I hope we can soon get back to meeting in person, I envision future meetings that are hybrid providing the opportunity for both in person and virtual participation.  Our pandemic past just might have developed a new future of participation; hearing more and diverse voices and perspectives will better serve our condominiums, our industry partners and strengthen CAINE and its members.

I anticipate that 2021will be the year of the hybrid model for CAINE, and I look forward to continuing to plan for our future and participating in whatever way I can, whether in person or remotely… as you can see from my photo, my hybrid participation has developed a hybrid wardrobe.

Edmund Allcock, Esq. is the 2020 CAINE chapter president and 2020 president of the CAI College of Community Association Lawyers (CCAL) board of governors and is a partner with the law firm Marcus, Errico, Emmer & Brooks, P.C. in Braintree, Mass.