According to the IRS, the official definition of an association is:

In general, an association is a group of persons banded together for a specific purpose.

That leaves a lot of room for interpretation, since associations are formed for an enormous variety of purposes. They also engage in a wide range of initiatives and activities from improving networking opportunities for like-minded people, to setting standards for industries and professions, to publishing magazines and providing education.

In our case, I would like to make special mention of the phrase “banded together” in the IRS definition, with particular reference to our Associate members. Since the birth of the Concrete Foundation Association in 1975, the Associate members have been one of the main driving forces behind the organization. Throughout every initiative, program, or publication, the Associates have been there to offer not only their financing, but equally important, their physical support. They have been on the forefront of bringing new technology, products, and processes to our industry. Over and over our Associates have supported and participated enthusiastically with every CFA initiative, even when it may have been difficult to draw a straight line to any direct benefit that they might receive. I have had numerous conversations with various associates who have felt that perhaps a certain event or sponsorship did not generate the level of response or participation that they were hoping for. This is a very critical issue, especially during a time when every advertising dollar is supremely scrutinized in order to receive the most bang for the buck.

In this letter I would like to not only say thank you to our Associates for all of their participation, but also to say how much the contractor members value and depend on your involvement and efforts. You not only provide product for contractors, you also provide invaluable leadership, guidance, and direction for our industry.

I think that it is fair to say the Associate members of the Concrete Foundations Association have proven time and time again that they are just as concerned about the success of the contractor members and our industry as a whole as they are about their own individual success. A simple thank you seems inadequate to show the level of appreciation for how our Associate members have “banded together” with us, the contractor members, to achieve our “specific purpose”…but it is an appropriate start.