Here’s a great way to get more out of your community: put more into it. And one way to do that is to join a committee for your HOA, condo, master-planned community, active adult community, cooperative or community association.
 
Many residents find this is a highly rewarding way to connect with their neighbors and build a stronger community all at the same time. Volunteering gives you the opportunity to share your life experiences, your particular area of expertise and more. Plus, it’s a great proving ground for community leadership should you choose to run for a board position later on.
 
As part of a committee, you’ll assist board members of your HOA, condo or community association. Committees address pressing issues, and their help can take shape as research into and recommendations for how to solve the challenges you face together. This could pertain to a variety of topics, from repairs and maintenance to social programming, landscaping, covenants enforcement, communication and beyond.
 
For many, committee membership boils down to a desire to strengthen the community, or simply to connect with fellow residents in a rewarding way. But some people hesitate to get involved because they’re not certain they have the qualifications. Here’s the thing, though: there’s really no requirement beyond a desire to serve.
 
Committees deliver many positives, both in creating stronger communities and providing volunteers with rewarding experiences. But if you’re concerned you may not have what it takes to add value to a committee, consider this:  there are no specific requirements.  The benefits an individual can bring to a committee are often as unique as the individuals and committees themselves – and for that matter, as unique as the HOA, association or community they serve. That applies for virtually any community type –from highrises in San Francisco and San Diego to master plans in Orange County or active adult communities in Palm Springs.
 
“Everyone has an area of expertise,” said Tony Woltman, CMCA® Executive Vice President, Community Management. “Those homeowners who have a background in accounting, finance, insurance, legal, education or management are particularly suited to committees. Even if you have an interest in a specific area rather than expertise – like landscaping, security, or recreation – then you’re a great candidate for a committee.”
 
Just remember: being part of a committee means working as part of a team. It takes time. Collaboration. Dedication. And the ability to work toward consensus. If you have the temperament for this type of work, then volunteering could be for you.
 
“At its core, it really takes community spirit,” Woltman said. “The only real prerequisite is a genuine interest in making a difference in your community.”
 
Oftentimes, these individuals include those who are new to a community, Woltman added. “It’s a great way to meet people right away – and to have an immediate impact.”
 
If your personality and skill set make you a good match for committee service, all that’s left to consider is time. Be candid with yourself when it comes to this matter: do your work and family responsibilities leave you enough time to volunteer with your community?
 
And here’s the big picture: a robust core of volunteers is the heart of a thriving community. It’s in your best interest to be among them – you’ll help increase property values, attract new quality residents, and enhance the image and brand of your association. Plus, you never have to go it alone. A good property management company can play a big role in helping to train volunteers to make the most of their roles.
 
So there you have it – all it takes is a little relevant experience, genuine interest in helping your community and the available time to do your best...plus the ability to separate your interests from those of the association and work toward the greater good. With that, you’re ready to volunteer.
 
And it can be highly rewarding. Just be sure you have the time, temperament and talent for the job at hand and you’re ready to strengthen your community through service. To learn more about association committees and how their members and activities can enhance the lifestyle of your highrise building or community, contact FirstService Residential California’s premier community management company.
 
Thursday May 12, 2016