September is the month for beginnings and new commitments. New residents arrive in many of our centers, preparations for fall units begin to take shape and we are looking forward to reconnecting with our colleagues and friends in ACPE at our regional meetings. In the spirit of new beginnings and commitments, we ask you to tap into your competitive self on behalf of ACPE. Never been competitive? Well, now is the time to try something new for yourself and the ACPE! The regional champions invite you to join in a "Friendly Giving Competition" among the regions. The competition ends on December 31, 2015 and the region with the highest percentage of donors in 2015 will be the ultimate winner. You will hear more about the friendly competition at your regional meeting, and yes, there will be something special for the winning region!

In addition to our "Friendly Giving Competition" this fall will offer plenty of other opportunities to support the Holy Work of ACPE. We will feature a series of "Gratitude Stories" from our members and students whose lives and careers have been transformed by CPE. On Tuesday, December 1 we will join other nonprofit organizations on the national day of giving by participating in "Giving Tuesday to benefit ACPE." Our goal is to raise $5,000 for student scholarships to the 2016 ACPE Annual Conference in Denver, Colorado. By doing so, we hope to foster the next generation of thoughtful, spiritual care practitioners.

Please join me in tapping into your spirit of generosity and gratitude and participate in the Annual Campaign. Donate today!