I would like to take this opportunity to give a special welcome to our new members from 2016. As you may remember, we had a November Membership Drive and gave all of our existing members a chance to refer some friends and colleagues for a chance to win a free INA Conference Registration. During that month alone we had 43 new members join our association. This is an exciting time for the INA as we have a fantastic Membership Committee who are focused on not only finding more ways to support our existing members but also grow our organization so that we can achieve our mission. Thank you to Louise Dunham, Caroline Malkin and Joanne Barrow for all your hard work. Look for more great things from them in the future.
I would also like to take the time to thank those of you who have been long-time members of INA. Some of you are even founding members of the association. If you have been with the organization a while, you will have seen us through many phases of life. You would have seen the INA grow and thrive but also struggle as we work to standardize the in-home childcare industry and educate the public about best practices within the industry. As the umbrella organization of the industry, the Board of Directors takes our role very seriously and we appreciate the continued support from our members. I hope that you will consider how you might be able to get more involved in the association through one of our many committees. I encourage you to reach out to Greta Schraer and the Volunteer Steering Committee. She has created a wonderful form that you can use to explore volunteering in the INA.
2017 will be full of exciting events within the industry and in INA. Our 2017 Conference is in Chicago, IL on May 18-21. With more than 30 different speakers, one-on-one coaching for nannies, newborn care specialists and agencies as well as the introduction of the INA Job Fair, this year is sure to be one you don’t want to miss.
Now is a great time for you to consider utilizing the INA Nanny Credential Exam. If you own an agency or are part of a nanny support group, we have a special discount for you. Gather 5 or more nannies who want to take the exam and everyone gets a discount. Contact the office for more details.
I look forward to seeing as many of you as possible in Chicago in May! Until then, stay warm for those of you in the northern hemisphere, otherwise, stay cool.
Marcia Hall
President, INA