By Ruth Akers, RN, BSN, MHA, MAACVPR

“Member,” according to the dictionary, is defined as a person belonging to a group, organization, or team. Simple enough. Yet membership is rarely that simple. A definition can explain what a member is, but it cannot fully capture the value of membership. It does not tell the story of the friendships formed, the purpose discovered, the lessons learned, or the sense of belonging that comes from being part of something greater than oneself.

Membership also carries responsibility. Strong organizations do not exist because a few individuals carry the load; they thrive because members choose to participate, volunteer, lead, mentor, and support one another. Every member brings something valuable to the table. Some lead from the front, while others quietly contribute behind the scenes. Both are equally important because organizations are strengthened by collective effort.

In today’s world, where many of us move through our days at the mercy of our schedules, responsibilities, and the demands of everyday life, professional organizations create spaces where people can connect in meaningful ways. They provide opportunities to learn, serve, and build relationships that often extend well beyond meetings and conferences. They bring together individuals with different experiences, perspectives, and strengths, all united by a common purpose.

My Association Journey

My experience won't be everyone's story, but it illustrates what can happen when we choose to become involved rather than to simply belong.  I began my career in cardiac rehabilitation in 1985 after working as a critical care nurse. Early on, my mentor — an expert and respected leader in the field — encouraged me to join the fledgling American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation (AACVPR), along with my state Affiliate Society. At the time, there was no other professional organization dedicated to this emerging specialty.

What seemed like a simple decision at the time became one of the most meaningful investments of my professional career. More than four decades later — 41 years, to be exact — I remain a proud member. Had I not joined AACVPR, I would not have had the opportunity to serve on national committees, develop as a leader, build lifelong professional friendships, serve on the Board of Directors, earn fellowship and, most recently, receive the AACVPR Master designation. Looking back, that single decision opened doors I never could have imagined and allowed me to contribute to the growth of a profession I deeply value.

During a recent AACVPR Board of Directors meeting, we reviewed data showing that many professionals who joined the organization allowed their memberships to lapse after only a few years. The findings surprised me and led me to ask a simple question: Why?

A recent survey confirmed many of the reasons I suspected: time commitments, cost, career stage, changing priorities, and other factors. Personal circumstances matter, but I also wonder whether some individuals simply have not had the opportunity to experience the deeper value that membership provides.

Membership is about far more than branded merchandise and your name on a roster. It is about connection, purpose, professional growth, and the collective impact we create together. Every member contributes something unique, and every contribution strengthens our organization and advances our mission.

What Do You Have to Lose? More Than You Think.

During this membership renewal period, I encourage you to take a moment to reflect on what AACVPR membership means to you. Consider not only what this organization can do for you, but also what you can do to strengthen it.

As a member, you have access to cutting-edge educational resources at no additional cost, a members-only discussion board, and other resources available only through membership. You also have opportunities to participate in advocacy efforts that can improve our profession and the care we provide our patients. Certifications, scientific research, data analytics, and so much more.

If you’ve ever wondered whether membership is worth the investment, I encourage you to take another look. Have you explored all of the benefits available to you? Do you realize everything that’s included? I challenge you to discover the full value of your membership. You may be surprised by all it has to offer.

Helen Keller once said, “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” Those words perfectly capture the spirit of membership. While one person can certainly make a difference, the collective strength of individuals united by a shared purpose creates something far greater. That is the true meaning of membership — not simply belonging to an organization, but investing in a profession, supporting one another, and becoming part of something bigger than ourselves.

Ruth Akers, RN, BSN, MHA, MAACVPR, is AACVPR Secretary of the Board and editor of AACVPR’s News & Views content platform. She was director of the Bryn Mawr Hospital Cardiac Rehab program for 40 years before retiring.