October 2022 Conference and Expo Edition

INSIDE CONNECTION ROBIN SURGENT | CAI-NJ MEMBERSHIP MANAGER

With Great Benefits, Comes Great Responsibility… to Use Them!

B eing the second largest chapter with over 2,600 members in New Jersey, that means we have a lot of homeowner leaders, management companies, managers and business partners that need-to-know what CAI-NJ can do for their communities and themselves pro fessionally. It’s my job, as Membership Manager to ensure that you know what benefits and resources are available to you, how to utilize them and how to get involved in all that CAI-NJ has to offer. Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) – This program is an exclusive member benefit, designed as an alternative to the traditional justice system, which includes negotiation and mediation with a trained third party. This affordable service is offered to parties who live or work in common interest communities. Community associations are required by state law to offer homeowners, a “fair and efficient” alternative to litigation, so look to our website, www.cainj.org/adr for this member resource. Educational Programming – Our chapter strives to ensure that our members are getting the most up to date industry information through our Lecture Series, Wednesday Webinars, Legislative Updates and Roundtable Discussions throughout the year. For our managers, you can receive continuing education credits (CECs) to maintain your cre dentials. For our business partners, set yourself apart and become an Educated Business Partner, a distinction that separates you from other vendors in the industry. Lastly, homeowners should take full advantage of our FREE Board Member Training, with offerings held at our CAI-NJ head quarters. Our calendar is packed with opportunities for you to both educate and participate in these programs. Networking Events – CAI-NJ offers countless opportu nities for you to attend networking events throughout the

“It’s my job, as Membership Manager to ensure that you know what benefits and resources are available to you...” have your thumbprint on the activities that are happening within the chapter. Whether you have a passion for writing, a creative spin on events or excel with customer relations, we have a committee for you! Reach out to me and let’s get you engaged with the membership! Solicit Articles & Speaking Engagements – My favorite thing about CAI-NJ is that we truly rely on our members to help us with our community best practices, whether it’s writing an article for our monthly publication, Community Trends ® or speaking at one of our educational programs. We want you to submit speaking proposals on what you find is trending in the industry based on your expertise! Be sure to visit our website for more information on arti cle submissions, https://cainj.org/community-trends/ and https://cainj.org/education-proposals/ for more informa tion on submitting education proposals. CONT I NU E S ON PAGE 65 year. From the Annual Dennis R. Casale Memorial Golf Outing to the Annual CAI-NJ Tradeshow, and everything in between, there is something for everyone. Events can range from 150 to 1200 attendees with the common goal of making new connections and building relationships in the community association industry. Join a Committee – There is no better time to get involved and join a CAI-NJ Committee. It’s the best way to meet new people, network within your committee and

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