ASSP’s volunteers are central to our work. Because you willingly share your hard work, expertise and passion, our Society continues to thrive. Every accomplishment we achieve and every advancement we make in our field is owed to your commitment to our community, our mission and our vision. We are known as a trusted advisor by business leaders and policymakers thanks to your many and varied contributions.

Your knowledge and experience help define industry standards, and your leadership and innovation advance our practice and support our community. Our collective action within ASSP and with our strategic partners ensures that our profession’s voice is heard. Your contributions count in every way, both as you lead improvements in your workplace and as you inform ASSP’s effort to lead safety forward.

Throughout our history, we can attribute all the major steps we have taken to our members. When it comes to creating safer, healthier workplaces, it is because members have come together to advocate for stronger evidence-based policies. When we offer education and professional development, it is often our members teaching the courses, developing the curriculum and supporting learning throughout the profession. When we foster a sense of community, members are able to connect and share best practices, creating a better environment for us all.

The power of our organization is not in one voice or one effort but in the thousands of volunteer leaders and members working together. Each of you plays a role. No matter the size of your contributions, they all count. They count to the people who benefit from your knowledge and guidance, those who find belonging and support in our community, and those who will lead our profession in the future.

The Power of Participation

You can participate in ASSP in various ways, all of which advance our mission to protect people, property and the environment. Your many contributions also support our vision that safety, health and well-being are inherent rights of all workers. As I said in my first message last July, “saying yes” has been a powerful force throughout my career, and each volunteer opportunity has had a positive effect on my career and my life.

Some volunteers serve on committees, task forces or the Board of Directors that guide our organization. Some mentor emerging professionals to ensure that the next generation of professionals feel welcome, valued and included. Many participate in the professional discussion by attending an event or by submitting their articles and ideas. Even smaller actions such as sharing an article, welcoming a new member or giving feedback on an initiative help us sustain our vibrant community.

Our network is strong because of the different ideas and experiences you bring to the table. Each day, I am inspired by your passion for the profession and your dedication to our Society. I have seen the power of our collective action, the value of shared knowledge and the impact we can have when we come together. The best organizations know that tapping into their members’ talents and ideas empowers everyone to be part of something bigger than themselves.

Looking to the Future

I find myself looking to the future with enthusiasm because I know that our volunteers at all levels will ensure that we succeed. Our ability to develop, create new strategies and lead is only possible with your support and willingness to give back. Your continued participation and engagement are critical to our ongoing success.

National Volunteer Week is April 20-26. Please take a moment to thank another member whose actions to give back to our profession have made a difference in your career. Also take a moment to reflect on your own contributions to ASSP and our profession as well—and perhaps explore some of the other opportunities to which you can say yes by starting here: https://assp.us/3topuef.

Your contributions, from the smallest actions to the largest stage, are the reason we are an advisor trusted to help organizations safeguard their workers and improve their outcomes. By helping us pursue our mission, you help us foster a sense of shared purpose that enables us to truly create a safer, stronger future for all.