Associations in the US are group of passionate individuals with the same goals in mind. They may be lawyers who are set out to improve the legal system and therefore, join the American Bar Association. Or, they may be people who want to deliver a lifesaving message about heart disease or stroke, so they join the American Heart Association as an advocate. US associations are a source of support, networking and solutions.

American associations give you a sense of pride and purpose. Even if you're in a volunteer charity organization, you have access to informational and educational tools. As a result, you have the ability to change your future and the futures of others. Consider:

1. Using American associations to network and grow as a professional in your specific field.

2. Researching different American association membership criteria.

3. Taking advantage of educational and other US association tools and opportunities.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Join US associations to meet and network with others

US associations consist of local, statewide, national and international groups. They are a large group of people who work together toward a common goal.

I recommend: Get your company involved with the American Heart Association as an advocate. Advocates respond to the action alerts and issues they feel are important. Campaign with others to contact legislators. Find a list of American associations through the Internet Public Library. Select from a long list of categories.

Pay annual dues to belong to US regional accrediting associations

US regional accrediting associations are for professionals who seek credentials, certifications or continuing education. Criteria and dues range depending on the organization.

I recommend: The American Bar Association (ABA) is the largest voluntary professional association in the world. There are more than 400,000 members to take advantage of continuing legal education, law school accreditation, information about the law, initiatives to improve the legal system for the public and programs to assist lawyers and judges in their work. Download the lawyer, associate or law student enrollment form. American Medical Association (AMA) is the nation's largest medical association. Members focus on public health and professional issues facing medicine today. Join or renew membership online.

Enjoy the benefits offered by joining American associations

When you join associations in the US, you get access to many career development tools such as research and professional publications, involvement in national advocacy efforts, discussions with leaders, courses and the ability to exchange ideas. Associations allow you to advance your skills and increase your knowledge, all while building your career, especially if joining an organization within your line of business.

I recommend: The American Psychological Association (APA) is a scientific and professional organization that represents psychologists in the United States. APA offers the chance to add to your lifelong learning and professional development by participating in continuing education (CE) opportunities. There are 84 different workshops, books, journals and an online academy. American Dental Association (ADA) provides professionals with information to help those in the industry provide the best patient care and manage their practice. Membership is open to general dentists, dental hygienists, specialists, assistants, dental laboratory technicians, dental students and others. You can earn CE credits 24/7 by taking advantage of ADA Continuing Education Online.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  If you're considering getting your company involved in an American Association, find one with a cause close to the hearts of your employees, or ties in with your industry. If, for instance, someone's child has Cystic Fibrosis, get involved with the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.