Reflecting on 2021: A Message from the Chair

(AREA Chair Kristie Kruger and her fiance Darren in Sointula on Malcolm Island, BC)

December calls for reflection on the past year and sets the stage for a fresh start as January rolls around. After 2020, it was hard to know where 2021 would take us, and I am thrilled to say it was an amazing year. We saw sales volume rebound throughout the province, keeping members busy.

Our Board is proud of AREA’s work on increasing member services while announcing a dues reduction of $50 starting in 2022. In 2021 we launched AREA Health, offering nine health & dental plans to choose from as well as a health spending account for your business. We look forward to launching AREA Fuel early next year, saving you money at the pump.

Many volunteers from across the province have contributed their time this fall to collaborate on compiling comprehensive submissions to the regulator’s proposed changes to licensing education curriculum. I’d like to thank them for dedicating many hours on short notice.

I’d also like to acknowledge the volunteer leaders at AREA’s 10 member Boards/Associations. It was wonderful to be able to meet in person again this year as we discussed how best to move industry forward on behalf of our members.

This holiday season, I wish you all happiness and health as you celebrate the start of a new year with colleagues, friends, and family.

On behalf of the Board of Directors and AREA staff, I would like to wish you a great holiday season and all the best in 2022.

Kristie Kruger
AREA Chair