FAQs

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQS)

Q: If I was accepted as a member prior to August, 2016, do I need to apply to this new Society?

A: No, you do not need to re-apply. All previously accepted members will automatically be offered the opportunity to continue their membership in the O.T. Leaders & Legacies Society.

Q: Will there expectations and responsibilities in this Society?

A: There are numerous opportunities for members to be engaged with projects sponsored by the Society. Beginning in fall, 2016, several projects were organized (see Projects). Basic organizational structures are in place and members are also offered opportunities for engagement in projects, and governance. Going forward, members are assessed an annual fee for dues so that we can support Society activities (see Membership Fees).

Q: What criteria are considered by the Governance and Recruitment Committees in making decisions regarding membership?

A: Members of the Board as well as the Sustainability Project reviews the nominations of individuals who have distinguished themselves through service or awards (i.e., AOTA Fellows, former local, state and national officers, board or commission members, OT regulatory board members, officers and board members of health-related professional organizations, etc.) as well as through personal communication and awareness. The Society is keenly aware that there are many individuals who are "unsung heroes" who may have less visible contributions, and it therefore encourages members, leaders, and others to help identify those potential nominees and encourage them to apply for membership.

Q: What is the time commitment expected of members?

A: The goal of the Society is to create a community of occupational therapists who are interested in sharing their talents and time to grow the profession in a meaningful way. Although membership is an honor, the Society is also intended to be an opportunity to serve the profession. The Society is mindful that the amount of time available for volunteer work varies by individual. Therefore, requirements for maintaining good standing can be met in a variety of ways. All members are expected to participate in at least one project or Society-related activity each year.

Q: Is there a financial commitment associated with membership in the Society?

A: Yes. Members are asked to pay dues in order to support the work of the Society. A dues structure has been developed that offers members the opportunity to pay for 1, 3, or 5 years of membership. The membership year is October 1 - September 30. Members who select a multi-year option lock in the fee at the time of their one-time payment and are not assessed any additional fees during the period that they have selected.

Q: Will participation in an annual meeting be required?

A: No, participation will not be required but participation is strongly encouraged. All membership meetings will be organized so that participation will not require travel (i.e., participation can be fulfilled through telephone or web-based arrangements).

Q: What type of service work will Society members do?

A: The Society is committed to engaging in projects that further the profession as well as build a legacy of past contributions of the profession to the political and social arenas through education, service, and practice. The Society will accomplish its work through projects which are related to Society goals, historical preservation, governance, recruitment and collaboration. Members can serve the Society by helping to sustain the organization through recruiting new members, helping establish our presence at professional meetings such as state or national conferences and/or on social media, and participating in the development of platforms for discussion and social engagement among members.

Q: The majority of my volunteer work has been in community organizations and/or within, or in support of, special needs communities. Will that type of leadership service count towards meeting the requirements for membership?

A: Yes! The Society seeks to engage individuals whose leadership serves society at large as well as the profession of Occupational Therapy.