A professional organization brings together individuals within a specific profession to support their common interests and professional development. Professional organizations support, advance, and promote the interests of their members through networking, education, and advocacy.
We will routinely update this list of organizations as we feature new contributors who suggest them during their interviews. Most organizations require an application process and annual dues at various levels, and many include options for students.
Even if you don't decide to join, there's also a ton of information about career titles, skills, free training, and certifications to help you see all the opportunities available in the public service field.
Association of Leaders in Volunteer Engagement (ALIVE) is a national membership organization of leaders and professionals in volunteer engagement. AL!VE serves to enhance and sustain the spirit of volunteering in America by fostering collaboration and networking, promoting professional development, and providing advocacy for leaders in community engagement.
ARMA International is a community of records management, information management, and information governance professionals who harness the benefits and reduce the risks of information. ARMA supports member's professional and career advancement with forward-thinking education, continued meaningful networking, and cutting-edge business tools - everything members need to successfully navigate the full information cycle.
Council for Certification in Volunteer Administration (CCVA) advances the profession and practice of volunteer resource management by articulating core competencies for the profession of volunteer administration, certifying individuals who demonstrate knowledge and competence in the leadership of volunteers, advancing standards of ethical practice, and promoting professional development and education.
International City/County Management Association (ICMA) is the premier organization of local government professionals worldwide. ICMA provides you with rights and privileges and access to information to support you as a professional, the communities you serve, and the profession you value.
Neighborhood Engagement & Revitalization Alliance (NERA) supports professionals involved in community engagement and neighborhood revitalization. Working together, they lead North Texas to help our neighborhoods become vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable.
Texas Municipal Clerks Association Inc. (TMCA), is a statewide professional organization dedicated to providing an educational and professional development program for novice and experienced city clerks.
Toastmasters International is a nonprofit educational organization that builds confidence and teaches public speaking skills through a worldwide network of clubs that meet online and in person. In a supportive community or corporate environment, members prepare and deliver speeches, respond to impromptu questions, and give and receive constructive feedback.
Urban Management Assistants of North Texas (UMANT) seeks to advance the quality of local government by providing a community to develop and support emerging leaders. Students and local government professionals will find opportunities to build their knowledge, relationships, and reputation by becoming members and actively participating in this organization. Seasoned professionals will find a community of emerging leaders to cultivate, recruit, and mentor.