Monday, 23 September 2013

Ideas for consideration at the CaSP AGM scheduled for 12h30 to 13h15 on Wednesday, 25 September 2013

Dear Colleagues and Members

The Community and Social Psychology Division's mission is to promote an understanding of the fields of community and social psychology.  Work in this area through the advancement of scientific research, professional education and formal conversations proofed to be valuable. A further aspect of the mission is social collaboration. The goals derived from the mission are amongst others to be achieved in cooperation with the general public or communities. To gain further background of the above aspects, the series of round table discussions on Scholarly Development at 19th PsySSA Congress in September 2013 should be closely followed.

I would like to suggest that we consider building on CaSP’s mission by interacting directly with communities and engage in specific projects and activities. The following actions to promote psychological insight and well-being in communities can be considered and discussed at the divisions’ yearly AGM:

1.     Intern psychologists and other members to actively recruit blog followers through further awareness raising  - use of existing network contacts
2.     The recruitment and contracting of intern project leaders for pilot projects
3.     Intern psychologists to be involved in the planning of small scale community projects
4.     Intern psychologist and mentors to engage with identified key stake holders in communities and launch activities
5.     Psychologists and other interested individuals to consider engagement with forums in communities to introduce positive and healing psycho-educational opportunities and collaboration

b.    Regarding constitutional matters, the following:
i.        “Full members shall be persons who are either registered students in psychology, at a recognised university at the undergraduate, Honours or Masters Level, and registered interns; or persons with a degree in any registration category in Psychology; or persons with an interest in or working in communities or who are involved in social interventions, social change or policy development.” Are we sure of the latter, can members of public be members of CaSP? I suggest we do create more engagement by raising external memberships? How would this effect payment methodology if any? 
ii.        “CaSP will consist of a group of 6 people who will decide who will take responsibility for different tasks related to its functions and will be referred to as an organisation committee.” Shall we try and expand the committee? As indicated before, we should consider building capacity. Furthermore, should we recommend regional representatives?
iii.        “The term of office of all members is two years. Office bearers shall not hold office in the same position for more than two consecutive terms.”  I suggest we open for discussion.
iv.        “A nominated person shall represent CaSP on the council of PsySSA. The executive shall appoint the alternate when necessary.” Chair to give any feedback of meetings
v.        “The division shall submit an audited income and expenditure statement to council for purposes of financial control.” How do we administer possible sponsorships and the like (income) from community members in the future?
vi.        Finally I suggest we consider if any amendments to the constitution are needed.

Compiled by Wiehann Rademan

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