Cal-ICMA has a tradition of conducting a Call-a-Thon as part of the annual Cal Cities City Managers Department Conference. 

The Cal-ICMA Talent Initiative, in partnership with the Municipal Management Association of Northern California (MMANC), Municipal Management Association of Southern California (MMASC), and Local Government Hispanic Network (LGHN) - California Chapters, will be hosting the annual Call-a-Thon as part of the annual Cal Cities City Managers Department Conference. This year, the Call-a-Thon will be held on Thursday, February 6 from 8:00 am - 9:00 am at The Westin Rancho Mirage.

The Call-a-Thon matches City and County Managers and other Senior Managers with emerging leaders who want career advice or other coaching. Coaches will gather shortly before 8 am in one of the education session rooms for a brief orientation and then will be assigned to call two emerging leaders from MMANC or MMASC. Each telephone call will last no more than 20 minutes. The first call will be scheduled from 8:05 am to 8:25 am. The second call will be conducted from 8:30 am to 8:50 am. All you need to do is bring your smart phone. No preparation is required.

During the two calls, emerging leaders can ask a career development question or two, seek advice about a problematic work situation, or ask for any other career guidance.

If are attending the 2025 City Managers Department Conference and willing to serve as a coach, please contact Frank Benest at frank@frankbenest.com.

The Call-a-Thon is an easy and fun way to create legacy. There is no preparation. All you have to do is bring your smartphone to the event.

Frank Benest, EdD

ICMA Liaison for Next Generation Initiatives

For further questions or inquiries about Cal-ICMA, reach out here.