Joanne Haskins joined Editors Canada in 1997 and has volunteered her time generously. She cold-read the Editors Toronto newsletter, Edition, in 2001; wrote copy for Active Voice to promote the 2001 annual conference; designed, laid out and produced Edition from 2002 to 2003; proofread the 2003–2004 members’ print directory; helped compile a reference list for members in 2007; and monitored the Interactive Voice forum from 2009 to April 2016. She currently volunteers as the Editors Canada members-only Facebook group moderator. Her duties include ensuring conversations are running smoothly, re-routing questions to the national office and making sure heated discussions are conducted with courtesy. It can sometimes be difficult to keep up with the volume of posts, but Joanne generally finds members to be generous and encouraging toward each other.
Joanne views membership as an active rather than a passive relationship; participating is a crucial part of being a member, especially if she can find ways to make the association stronger. In return, her volunteer experiences with Editors Canada have shown clients her commitment to the industry and her desire to develop new and existing skills. She also finds her fellow members, who are equally passionate about language and the association, inspiring.
An editor since 1988, Joanne began her career as an editorial assistant and then as a managing editor for a national trade magazine publisher. She learned every facet of the editorial and publishing processes from these positions, and she carries this versatility to her freelance business.
The featured volunteer recognizes the contributions of our dedicated people who keep Editors Canada going. Volunteers are the backbone of the association, and we are grateful for the many members and affiliates who answer the call when help is needed.
Want to make a difference in your association? Find out more about volunteering for Editors Canada.