How does ASHT -- a relatively small organization of just over 3,000 members -- put together an amazing Annual Meeting, offer a variety of educational offerings, provide an updated website with networking on the e-community, support research to improve our evidence-based practice and provide ongoing support for member needs? Because each of us continues to join. It is only through our membership dues that these activities and opportunities exist. Supporting our profession by membership is the primary way to ensure our specialty of hand and upper extremity therapy continues to thrive.
In these economic times when there is substantial concern about what the future holds and where our dollars go, I find it comforting to know that ASHT considers our dues very seriously, down to the cost of coffee at our Annual Meeting. There has not been an increase in membership dues since I can remember, which is amazing considering the increase in costs in every other area of our lives.
We are striving to improve the financial stability of ASHT by building a reserve fund, but this can only happen when we are able to operate with a net income at the end of the year. Let’s encourage those around us to visit the ASHT website and consider joining, as member benefits continue to grow. Consider making an additional donation to one of the restricted funds, which have specific purposes, including the Vision Fund, Annual Meeting Sessions Fund and Awards and Scholarships Fund.
As I end my term as Secretary/Treasurer, I would like to take this opportunity to thank our members who have supported ASHT over the years and let you know that your membership is valued greatly.
Linda Klein, OTR/CHT
ASHT Secretary/Treasurer
