Perhaps because we are comprised of individuals who have played an integral part in an industry that has seen more changes, developments and inventions than most, Pioneers have always understood the value of preserving history.
An excerpt from the book, The Telephone Pioneers of America 1911-1961 reads, “As hobbies developed during the Depression, the traditional interest in history continued through collecting related equipment, compiling records and piecing together long-forgotten events from newspapers, company archives and from the memories of veteran telephone people. The personal reminiscences of these employees imbued the official reports with personality and warmth of human experiences. In many cases, they supplied important information which filled the gaps in early company histories.”
And another reads, "The interest in company history took wing in 1941 when the Association urged that all chapters undertake historical research on telephone systems in their areas. The Pioneers were to compile the material; the telephone companies to oversee the writing and publication. It was a project on a grand scale.”
From books to museums and memorabilia, Pioneers have exhibited a keen ability to preserve its industry’s history and our organization’s history which is why we have undertaken the creation of a Pioneers Centennial History Book. This limited edition publication will document Pioneers proud history and century of accomplishments. Because every member has a story of how as a Pioneer they have embraced the "Spirit of Service”, we are encouraging all Pioneers to share their own personal experiences as a Pioneer, as well as to submit a photograph for the book. (Purchasing a book is not required to submit a personal profile, story or photo.)
The Pioneers have selected Harris Connect as their trusted partner to produce this commemorative publication. Due to the overwhelming positive response we have received since launching this project last November, the deadline to submit a personal profile, story, photo for and/or purchase the Pioneers Centennial History Book has been extended to March 14, 2011.
Help us capture and preserve our rich and important history in our Centennial year. Submit your narrative by phoning our publisher Harris Connect toll free at 1-800-488-9148. Be sure to respond by March 14 to ensure you are a part of this special commemorative book!
Friday, February 25, 2011
Friday, February 18, 2011
Answering the Call of Our Communities
On February 10th, Pioneers launched its annual Answer the Call Campaign - an initiative aimed at helping us expand our reach for financial support for Pioneering beyond our membership to include the communities we serve.
And serve we have. In 1958, Pioneers officially declared that community service was part of our mission. An excerpt from the 33rd General Assembly by Pioneers President, William V. Kahler had this to say about The New Tradition -
“Can you have fellowship without being loyal? Can you have loyalty without serving some one or some cause? Can you serve without a feeling of fellowship? Almost all great social organizations are built on some variation of these principles. Many of them have earned international reputations through them. Our own activities in the field of public service have not been so imposing – and perhaps they may never be. But our potential in other ways can be no less spectacular. Think of the many times in the past we have reached out into the communities where we live and work, and pioneered a significant cause. Some of our efforts have had profound effects upon the people involved – both those who gave and those who received.
We have built no buildings – erected no physical monument to mark the role we have played in our communities…except in the hearts of the people immediately concerned. Yet – as Pioneers – we have been glad to serve – freely adding to our concept of service to the public through the telephone, a concept of service to the community through social concern."
Pioneers has proudly carried this New Tradition forward. And in the present day, it is efforts like the Answer the Call Campaign that provide the resources needed to fulfill this Tradition. It also provides a great opportunity to educate friends, family and others in our hometowns about who the Pioneers are and how we meet our community needs through our volunteerism.
Join us in expanding our base of support by volunteering for this important campaign - an excellent way to celebrate Pioneers in our Centennial year. If you are not phoned to participate and would like to receive a kit, please email Christina Hemphill at Pioneers Headquarters.
And serve we have. In 1958, Pioneers officially declared that community service was part of our mission. An excerpt from the 33rd General Assembly by Pioneers President, William V. Kahler had this to say about The New Tradition -
“Can you have fellowship without being loyal? Can you have loyalty without serving some one or some cause? Can you serve without a feeling of fellowship? Almost all great social organizations are built on some variation of these principles. Many of them have earned international reputations through them. Our own activities in the field of public service have not been so imposing – and perhaps they may never be. But our potential in other ways can be no less spectacular. Think of the many times in the past we have reached out into the communities where we live and work, and pioneered a significant cause. Some of our efforts have had profound effects upon the people involved – both those who gave and those who received.
We have built no buildings – erected no physical monument to mark the role we have played in our communities…except in the hearts of the people immediately concerned. Yet – as Pioneers – we have been glad to serve – freely adding to our concept of service to the public through the telephone, a concept of service to the community through social concern."
Pioneers has proudly carried this New Tradition forward. And in the present day, it is efforts like the Answer the Call Campaign that provide the resources needed to fulfill this Tradition. It also provides a great opportunity to educate friends, family and others in our hometowns about who the Pioneers are and how we meet our community needs through our volunteerism.
Join us in expanding our base of support by volunteering for this important campaign - an excellent way to celebrate Pioneers in our Centennial year. If you are not phoned to participate and would like to receive a kit, please email Christina Hemphill at Pioneers Headquarters.
Friday, February 11, 2011
Centennial Year Kicks Off with Strong Start!
Pioneers’ Centennial year has kicked off with a strong start!
Pioneers received press coverage from Florida to Portland to Prince Edward Island to Denver on our Centennial Community Grant Program which is awarding more than $520,000 to 21 Pioneers units who applied for support for volunteer efforts taking place in communities across the U.S. and Canada Florida
Our Pioneers’ member benefit partners have stepped up with new and interesting offers to celebrate our Centennial year. During the month of February, Life Line Screening is offering a $20 discount to each Pioneers’ couple (friends, siblings, spouses, partners, etc.) that signs-up for a screening by February 28, 2011. The screening package includes four of the most popular tests: stroke/carotid artery disease, abdominal aortic aneurysm, atrial fibrillation/heart rhythm and peripheral arterial disease. The package also includes a personalized report for you to share with your doctor. Take care of the one you love this Valentine’s month by scheduling your couple’s appointment (visit www.lifelinescreening.com/pioneers or call 1-800-690-7485 and use priority code BTPC001).
Stay tuned for more blog coverage of upcoming grants projects as they occur and more Pioneers’ Centennial happenings, opportunities to participate and special offers for our members in honor of this momentous anniversary!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)