September 19, 2011
Nation's Building News

The Official Online Newspaper of NAHB

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Membership
September Is Associate Member Appreciation Month
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As they commemorate Associate Member Appreciation Month during September, home builders associations around the country will honor suppliers, service providers and other associate members who do business with home builders and remodelers.

From banks to accounting firms, landscapers to electronic systems installers and more, associate members represent the depth and breadth of the industry and the positive economic impact it has on the community, said Ann Garvey, chair of NAHB’s Associate Members Committee.

HBAs across the country will be honoring associate members with special recognition during dinner and luncheon meetings, official proclamations, discounts, coupons and the “Do Business With a Member” campaign.

Asociates represent the majority of NAHB members, they are a major source of local HBA dues and income, and they support builders, remodelers and developers in several ways, Garvey said.

She said associate members are a major source of non-dues revenue to their local HBAs through sponsorships and advertising, and “as industry partners, they are a valuable resource for business and management tips” for builders and remodelers.

In addition, associate members are strong supporters of their local and state political action committees and of BUILD-PAC, the national political action committee.

“NAHB’s associate members continue to play a critical role in ensuring BUILD-PAC has the tools to elect pro-housing candidates to Congress. I would like to thank the associate members for their endless dedication and strong commitment to strengthening BUILD-PAC's voice," said 2011 BUILD-PAC Chairman Granger MacDonald.

As NAHB honors their contributions, Garvey said it is more important than ever for associates to contribute their time and talent to the work of their local HBAs.

“Associates help to advocate for policies that promote a positive economic and regulatory environment for home building and related businesses. We are a vital part of networking opportunities on the local, state and national levels, and, yes, it can bring unparalleled opportunities to introduce your business or service to potential clients,” Garvey said.

“Even in these difficult economical times your participation in association activities will solidify your reputation and business both within the association and your community,” Garvey said. “When I started attending local meetings, my business did not grow overnight. I got involved, and made some trusted relationships through HBA contacts and activities.”

“To this day, the relationships I have formed over the years are the reason I am successful as a person and, certainly, I am a better person because of it,” she said.

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