How can an OTA become involved in leadership and advocacy?
Answer
I would recommend sending an email to the president or another leader of the organization. I had people do that quite often when I was president. An example would be, “Hi, I’m new to town, I’m thinking I want to get a little bit involved, but I don’t have much time. Can you talk to me about what the organization has that I might be able to do?" Perhaps you can offer an hour or two at a conference or be on a committee. You could help with building membership or coming up with educational resources.
I would bet that the president or somebody in leadership could help you figure out a place to start. Most of them I was able to find people a good spot. I actually just met with somebody new to town who was interested in getting involved. She ended up accepting a board position after talking with me.
Amber L. Ward, MS, OTR/L, BCPR, ATP/SMS
Amber Ward has been a treating occupational therapist for 22 years; 10 years in inpatient rehabilitation, and 12 years as full time Occupational Therapy Coordinator with persons with ALS, muscular dystrophies, MS, Parkinson's, and other neurological disorders. She has treated a wide variety of patients, of all ages and functional levels. She currently is an adjunct professor at the OTA program at Cabarrus College of Health Sciences in addition to working in the clinic. She received the RESNA Assistive Technology Professional certification in 2004, a Seating and Mobility Specialist in 2013 and became AOTA board certified in physical rehabilitation in 2010. She is the author of two articles about power wheelchairs with persons with ALS, and numerous other book chapters and articles. She presents locally, nationally and internationally about ALS, power wheelchairs, research and neurodegenerative diseases.
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