Celebrating International Community Association Managers Day

Jess

June 12, 2023 • 4:42PM

International Community Association Managers Day, celebrated on June 13, is a special day dedicated to recognizing and honoring the hard work and dedication of community association managers around the world. These professionals are the backbone of condominium communities and homeowners associations, providing essential skills and expertise for successful operations and governance.

The history of community association management is relatively young, with significant growth in the past 50 years. In the 1970s, there were only a few community association managers, and those who entered the profession had limited training and resources. Many professionals transitioned from related fields like apartment management, hospitality and tourism, and commercial development management.

As the number of community associations grew worldwide, the pioneers of the industry realized the need for specialized education and skills. Today, there are over 355,000 community associations in the U.S., housing more than 74 million Americans. The success of these communities heavily relies on the dedicated work of over 55,000 community association managers₁ who tirelessly meet the needs and expectations of residents while ensuring the volunteer homeowners who govern the communities thrive. Community managers with certifications from the Community Associations Institute (CAI) adhere to the highest ethical standards in their work with community associations.

Community associations have become a popular housing choice, especially for condominium buyers seeking proximity to city centers, public transportation, and schools. These communities offer shared amenities such as pools, walking trails, and recreational facilities that may otherwise be unattainable. The field of community association management presents numerous career opportunities, substantial earning potential, and a broad job market, spanning from bustling cities to picturesque island getaways.

To understand the journey and progress of community association management, let's explore the timeline of significant milestones:

- 1964: The Urban Land Institute (ULI) publishes the first systematic study of planned communities, setting the framework for the industry.
- 1965: ULI and the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) model a planned-unit development statute.
- 1973: The Community Associations Institute (CAI) is established as a national organization to provide education and act as a clearinghouse of ideas and practices for the community association housing market.
- 1980: CAI launches its professional management development program to educate community association managers.
- 1996: The Community Association Managers International Certification Board (CAMICB) establishes the Certified Manager of Community Associations (CMCA) credential, the first step for many managers to demonstrate their expertise in the field.
- 2004: CAI offers its first online course, "The Essentials of Community Association Management."
- 2010: CAI establishes its first international chapter in South Africa, solidifying its position as the international hub for community association information, best practices, education, and advocacy.
- 2022: The inaugural International Community Association Managers Day is celebrated.

Express Appreciation

Take the time to show your gratitude and appreciation to your community association manager. Write a heartfelt thank-you note or email expressing how their hard work and dedication have positively impacted your community. You can also organize a small appreciation event or gathering where residents can come together to express their thanks and recognition.