CAI is a national organization dedicated to building better communities. More than 60 million Americans live in an estimated 315,000 association-governed communities. At the national and state level, CAI is the primary source for continuing education, resulting in numerous professional designations conferred upon the staff and corporation.
Community Associations Institute’s (CAI) designations help ensure that managers have the knowledge, experience, and integrity to provide the best possible service to your association. If your manager holds a CAI designation, he or she has made a substantial commitment and investment in their education and career, and your community’s welfare.
A community association operates as a government, a community, and a business, making it a truly specialized type of organization. Leading America’s 250,000 community associations are more than a million volunteers—homeowners who dedicate their free time to serve on boards and committees.
As a board member, trustee or volunteer leader working with your association or cooperative, you have fiduciary responsibilities which compel you to make decisions that can have profound financial and social impact on you and your neighbors. Receiving professional and accurate advice or guidance on issues such as reserves, maintenance, insurance, budgets, governance, contracts, the law, and rules can make the difference between prosperity and distress.
To help ensure that you have the expert guidance you need to manage your community’s assets most effectively, look for professionals with the designations and certifications described below.
The Certified Manager of Community Associations (CMCA®)
Is the only international certification program designed exclusively for managers of homeowner and condominium associations and cooperatives. The CMCA recognizes individuals who have demonstrated the fundamental knowledge required to manage community associations.
Association Management Specialist (AMS®)
The second level in the career development track for community association managers.
The AMS designation demonstrates a higher level of commitment to your career and the community association industry. An AMS designation is recommended for managers who want to enhance their career opportunities by increasing their knowledge and expertise.
Professional Community Association Manager (PCAM®)
The pinnacle of community association management. The PCAM designation is the highest professional recognition available nationwide to managers who specialize in community association management.
Accredited Association Management Company (AAMC) This accreditation demonstrates a company’s commitment to providing the unique and diverse services community associations need. An AAMC insures that its staff has the skills, experience, and integrity to help communities succeed and that its managers have advanced training and demonstrate a commitment to the industry.
Many experts who work in these fields must earn degrees and pass tests to be certified. So why would a board hire professionals who may not be qualified to look after their homes and their community?