In most associations, the transition from Board chair to past chair happens at the Annual General Meeting (AGM). On paper, it’s straightforward: a motion is passed, officers change, and the new chair steps in, but in practice, it’s one of the most important and fragile governance moments your organization [...]
Associations are struggling to attract experienced volunteer leaders, and resources are stretched thin. While a senior association manager for an Association Management Company (AMC), I’ve spent many years developing, implementing, and measuring association strategic plans; the process always benefits from fresh perspectives and the right tools. The Strategic plan [...]
Volunteer Boards are the backbone of any association, bringing together experienced professionals who generously offer their time, expertise, and leadership. But with great influence comes great responsibility, and one of the most critical responsibilities is recognizing and managing conflicts of interest. In industries where Board members often own businesses or [...]
If you’ve ever coordinated an association event as a volunteer leader, you know the feeling: committees are essential...and exhausting. One group handles programming, other wrangles sponsorships; a third one manages logistics, and somehow, you are the ringmaster keeping it all together. But here’s the good news: coordinating committees doesn’t [...]
In the world of associations, traditions matter. We look at our traditions for meaning, history, connection, and practice. For association volunteer leaders and committee members, these traditions are often deeply personal, built through years of service, collaboration, and care for the association and its members. The thread that links [...]
Following up is an art form. Deliberate follow-up reinforces trust, accountability, and respect for people’s time when engaging with Boar, members, strategic partners, or head office staff. When done well, it keeps priorities moving forward without creating friction and shows your interest in the situation, the process, and the [...]
Associations are built on decades of passion and commitment. As the workforce continues to evolve, many organizations are beginning to examine how effectively they are attracting and retaining younger generations - particularly Millennials and Gen Z, who will play a key role in future membership growth. Engaging younger professionals [...]
Association volunteer leaders are the backbone of associations. They lead Boards, chair committees, and drive initiatives that shape the organization's direction. While staff provide support and manage day-to-day operations, volunteers make key decisions and guide the association forward. Successful associations thrive when volunteers understand their roles in keeping Boards, [...]
We live in a time where “being connected” is a part of life. As a leader of an Association, it is important to be connected. Connected to the board, to members, to stakeholders, and to the association executive (CEO or Executive Director). The challenge today is how to [...]
Association volunteer leaders play a powerful role in helping members feel informed, engaged, and connected. But as we move into 2026, there is more noise than ever communications-wise. Members are overloaded with information, including emails, social feeds, meeting invites, updates, and personal notifications. That means even the most important [...]
