The American Society of Association Executives (ASAE) recently launched an initiative called "The Power of A: Stronger by Association." The story immediately grabbed my attention. It clearly showcases the value of associations that is deeply embedded in our culture but sometimes hard to specifically pinpoint. It thrust the value of associations front and center -- demonstrating their importance to individuals, companies and our nation's economy. Here is the full story from ASAE on the power of associations, including the Association for Healthcare Documentation Integrity (AHDI) and our 15,000 members.

Would it surprise you to know that one in every three Americans is a part of our nation's vital association and nonprofit community? Whether as an employee, a member, a volunteer or donor, the heart of our industry are people -- experts, problem solvers, innovators -- members of a robust workforce helping to build a stronger America and world.

While like every other business sector, associations and nonprofits have been impacted by our challenging times, members of the country's 1.9 million associations and nonprofits remain hard at work addressing the country's most pressing issues.

• The association industry's collective power keeps America competitive by committing resources to life-long learning and professional development opportunities.
• Associations impact the global economy through industrial development, product and service innovation and facilitating face-to-face domestic and international business.
• Associations help the nation prepare for the future by working together to develop better ways of doing business, creating new standards of ethics, and bringing a collaborative perspective to light for America's legislative decision-makers.
• Associations enrich lives through everyday volunteer efforts that help people overcome daily challenges, citizenship with communities around the globe, and by providing specialized expertise to help create legislation that works for America.

Associations and nonprofits at their core include millions of Americans who are the most knowledgeable and passionate about industries, professions and ideas. Across the country, state to state, associations are mobilizing millions to turn change into progress one step at a time. 

And, we are accessible. Tap into our motivated and contemporary American resources. Call upon us for expertise, collective points of view, access to opinions, science and research to learn from lessons past and shape the nation that is to come.

Learn more about how associations and nonprofits help build a stronger America and world at www.ThePowerOfA.org.

Articulating the intangible benefits and value of belonging to an association can sometimes be difficult. The Power of A urges us to do just that. AHDI members enjoy benefits such as discounted member pricing and subscriptions to Plexus and Matrix. Those are extremely valuable; however, there is something larger that can be hard to put your finger on. But it is very real, and when you talk to a member who has found it, you can hear the excitement and enthusiasm in his or her voice. When you find "it," you do not want to ever let go. "It" is supportive and provides greater meaning to our careers.

I encourage you to share your story of when and how you discovered The Power of A. Reveal the subtle benefits you have experienced to someone new to the profession or a practitioner who has not yet discovered "it." Describe the spark that was immediately ignited the first time you connected with a fellow member who understood the nuances of your profession. What does it mean to be part of a community that has no walls -- giving you an opportunity to virtually cross borders to come together with members who share your passion and drive for complete and accurate medical records? We can all be mentors by sharing The Power of A and building a united community of healthcare documentation specialists. Let the conversation begin!

Linda G. Brady is director of member relations for the Association for Healthcare Documentation Integrity (AHDI) and has more than 15 years' experience in association management. Linda has been an active member of the American Society of Association Executives since 1998 and currently serves as a volunteer on the Component Relations Section Council. She earned her Certified Association Executive (CAE) credential from ASAE in 2004.