The European Ramblers Association (ERA) Board Meeting took place from February 22 to 25, 2024, in Mandelieu-la-Napoule, France, with a kind support of the Centre Expo Congres. The meeting welcomed all Board members and focused on several key areas including strategic plans, finances, and project updates.
1. Strategic Planning: The Board reviewed the ERA’s strategic plans for 2024, identifying areas needing attention such as funding, member involvement, and cross-border activities. It was noted that the current status did not fully align with the key performance indicators for 2024.
2. Financial Review: Financial discussions covered the 2023 financial overview and projections for 2024-2028. The Board highlighted the need to secure an additional €5,000 for the 2024 budget and discussed various strategies, including crowdfunding and special donations.
3. Working Groups and Projects: Updates were provided on various working groups and projects including the LQT-BE (Leading Quality Trails – Best of Europe), European walking events, and the protection of waymarking. The Board also discussed participation in several EU-funded projects and the need for progress in the Green Trails initiative.
4. Member Organizations: The Board addressed potential new members from Ireland, Romania, and Albania. A questionnaire for member organizations was prepared to be distributed in the upcoming ERA spring webinar “Enlargement of individual members in member organisations”.
5. Events and Communications: Plans for the European Walking Day 2024 were discussed, with proposed mottos for the upcoming years. Additionally, updates on ERA webinars and conferences were shared, including the autumn webinar topics and concepts for future events.
6. Partnerships and Collaborations: A contract with the International Aqua Walking (IAW) was signed to assure the ongoing aqua walking games and spread this increasing activity among the ERA members. The Board also highlighted the importance of ongoing collaborations and future engagements.
First raw, from left: Arnaud Fantapié (IAW president), Boris Mićići (ERA president)
Second raw, from left – members of ERA Board: Steen Kobberoe-Hansen, Angelo Michele Latorre, Gerhard Ermischer, Sophie Chipon, Rúben Jordao, Asnate Ziemele
The meeting concluded with the planning for future Board meetings and discussions on additional topics such as ERA’s representation in festivals and potential collaborations with Mediterranean Trails Network.