As we approach the end of 2020, year-end planning for your association should be top-of-mind to prepare for the new year and stay on track with your organization’s goals.

I watched my dad create and grow Easter Associates, and now as President & CEO I’m honored to keep the tradition going. When Peter Easter started our company in 1976, associations throughout Virginia grappled with the time consuming and tedious aspects of managing their organization. Now, 44 years later, association leaders have even more responsibility because of competition, financial demands, technology trends, additional modes of marketing, and more.

It’s been months since many of us have been able to take meetings in our office. Our home is filled with constant distractions; we do our best to contribute on work calls, but it’s challenging to stay engaged.

John, a volunteer member of the board of directors of a mid-sized association in Roanoke, VA called, and the stress he was feeling resonated through the phone.

Members are the lifeblood of any association, and being able to grow and retain members is year-round work.