Presidents Message
I would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the membership for the opportunity to lead this association.
A resounding theme in the TCA is the loss of membership and lack of participation. We as members of the 21st century have become very busy, very independent individuals. For a variety of reasons, we have drifted away from participating in civic activities and belonging to clubs and organizations and have become self-centered in our activities.
Our challenge as an association is how can we recruit and keep members and motivate them to volunteer and participate in our meetings and functions.
Most people join an organization for one of two reasons, either benefits or mission. If one joins for benefits, it is for the basic motivation of "what’s in it for me." If one joins for mission, it is because they want "to influence making a difference."
We have many benefits to offer members including networking, building relationships, educational speakers and seminars as well as the opportunity to offer community service, promote the claims profession and fellowship with others in the insurance industry.
We have many members who truly believe in our mission as an association and are willing to contribute their time and energy to promote its cause. Recent changes made at the 2007 convention are an indication of the synergy of our association and the willingness to take whatever steps necessary to remain solvent and continue to be successful in the future.
The future success and strength of the TCA depends on each local association as they are each part of the whole. I challenge the officers of each local to work together to determine the inner-motivation of each of your members. Approach them to volunteer or contribute in a way that is of interest to them. Continue to ask yourselves "what we do as an association" and remind the members of our "mission" and how they can be a part of its success.
We look forward to seeing everyone at the 2008 Convention in Nashville, TN.
Sincerely,
Bennie Greiner
TCA President 2007