THE CHALLENGE
The American Mosquito Control Association (AMCA) was founded in 1935. Since its inception, the Association was managed as a stand alone organization, often run by a retired mosquito control professional. In 2000, the Board of Directors realized that this model may not be the best solution and began looking into association management companies as an alternative.
I began my employment with AMCA in 2001. I knew very little about association management or association management companies. I just knew my job might be at risk. The Board of Directors voted against moving to a management company that year and my job was safe.
In 2005, the board of directors informed me that they were looking into association management companies again, and once again I was in fear of losing my job. The board made it very clear that this was not a reflection of the job I was doing. I was often a one-woman show and the AMCA needed a contingency plan if I decided to leave. In addition, they knew that an association management company could provide additional resources and opportunities.
THE SOLUTION
I began to do my research on association management companies and realized that it really was a good option for AMCA. I contacted Association Headquarters (AH) and presented them with my dilemma. AH presented a proposal to AMCA for management, which included me serving as the Executive Director. It was a win-win for everyone, and AH was selected.
RESULTS
The transition was seamless for both AH and AMCA. I already knew the association. Members didn’t even realize there was a change other than the organization’s address.
The biggest transition was for me. I was used to working with a very small staff and I did everything from stuffing envelopes to planning the annual conference. It took me a while to grasp the concept that entire departments exist at AH to handle those things.
The association is better managed and presented with ideas and programs that I never would have been able to support or even dream of before working with AH. Having other associations and other executive directors at my disposal for idea exchanges has been invaluable.
