Thanks NOI for the great training... Well, I am back in my studio, on the third floor of my home, working alone on my computer. But something has changed. It is hard to believe that my amazing experience at NOI's Summer Campaign Bootcamp started with a simple response to an email invitation to get a chance at a free training. I usually never reply to unsolicited emails...but this one was different...so I thought I would give it a try. I still can not believe that I was selected, as one of 58 trainees from across the country. What talented, interesting, intelligent and ENERGETIC people they all are...with very bright and exciting futures ahead of them. I am very grateful to have been a part of this experience.

And what an experience it was...BOOTCAMP is a perfect description. Each day was packed with exciting information. Learning about the components needed to conducted an effective email campaign, field campaign, online organizing, fundraising, phone banking with call-from-home technology, effective GOTV techniques, etc. was extremely helpful and enlightening...I will be drawing upon the lessons learned in future campaigns that I work/volunteer for.

It was amazing to see how new technology has expanded capabilities...it will take a while to rap my mind around all that I was introduced to. I was really impressed with the VAN and Catalist, as a former employee of the Board of Elections and one familiar with the importance of voter files, it was amazing to see how they have been enhanced...the quickness was overwhelming. As one who has "cut turf" and made attempts to "target" voter files - precinct-by-precinct through the use of Excel's "auto filter" capabilities....I WAS REALLY IMPRESSED. The Data Track classes were excellent...thanks Judith.

I thought I was pretty "progressive" in my use of the computer, website development and knowledge of technology...but I have to admit that this training took me to a whole new level...and humbled me along the way. YouTube, Blogging, Facebook...just to name a few...are technologies and communication tools that I have never used before the NOI training (these comments that I am writing now, are in fact my FIRST ATTEMPT at blogging). Thanks Zack, for pulling me into the 21st century...these are powerful tools and I am really encouraged and excited to see their application and use in political/campaign communication.

I really do not know where to start in talking about the trainers...other than to say THANK YOU for taking your time to share information with our group. The calliber, breath on knowledge and experience of NOI trainers was AMAZING. I would like to extend a special "thanks" to Marshall Ganz for sharing his experiences and contributions to the Civil Rights Movement. The values he embodies are the reason why I am a Democrat and fight each election year for Democratic victories and vote for Democratic candidates...40 years in the desert is long enough...I have renewed hope that 2008 will mark the beginning of a new era. Meeting all the NOI trainees, trainers and progressive organizations has renewed my belief.

Finally, I would like to thank Roz, Judith and Zack. The New Organizing Institute is an excellent organization...and much needed...after recieving this training and getting the opportunity to network with so many people in the Progressive Democratic movement...I have come back with renewed optimism and belief that we can win back this country...and get back on the right track...There are alot of smart, talented and kind people, from across this country that are working to make sure that it happens. I greatly appreciated NOI's extension of opportunities provided by training, networking and job interviews and your genuine support in helping the new NOI trianees join this important movement...

Thank you for my renewed hope...sitting on the third floor of my home, working in my studio - alone, I now know that there is alot of important work being done across this nation...and I now look forward to being a part of it.  ¶ posted by cycatlin @ 10:13 AM