It only seems appropriate to utilize the above cinematic symbol to correspond with the movie themes being applied to the GAHSC Annual Conference. An appropriate movie title representing the status of the Direct Care Chapter for 1997/98 would be "As Good As It Gets"! Although attendance this year has been fluctuating, several agencies have been sending representatives to attend our meetings.

Our most recent meeting at the United Methodist Home in Decatur on March 18^th drew approximately 45 persons representing nine separate child care agencies. This number represents normal attendance, as well as consistent agency representation. For whatever reason, the high numbers we recorded last year for attendance have been difficult to reclaim in 1998. Participant feedback from program evaluations speaks highly of the overall quality of the programming being offered to child care workers. Participants emphasize that they really enjoy the connecting activities with other child care workers, the quality of training received, and the diversity of activities on the program. These activities serve to engage the participants by drawing them into active participation. A major focus has been recruiting individuals to apply for Chapter membership. At each meeting, newly accepted members are given a certificate of membership and are recognized before the group. Overall, members attend meetings more frequently than non-members.

This past year, the Savannah area came on board and is in the developmental phase of creating their own Chapter. There is some interest in Middle Georgia in creating their own Chapter, as well. Aside from growth and statewide servicing, this year we have been committed to developing operating guidelines. These guidelines have helped to set structure for the Chapter. Elections will take place in May; at this time, new officers will be elected to carry on Chapter activities for the next year.

Respectfully submitted,

Kelvin Thompson