By Pat Graves
I am a long-term member of NCRA and currently run a CART and captioning company. I write to support the proposed $50/year membership dues adjustment and the $25/year retired members’ dues adjustment. If you want a really short one-word reason, it would be “necessary.” Well, maybe “essential.” Okay, okay, another one-word reason would be “critical.” It is critical that the proposed dues adjustment passes this year.
I have read the various facts put forward: “It is 13.7 cents a day” or “It is the equivalent of 10 pages of transcript.” And also: “There has been no dues increase in five years.” My rationale is that it is “essential” for me to remain a certified professional. In order to do that, it is “critical” that NCRA remains healthy and viable.
Whether a member learns new skills, technology, or obtains continuing education points, NCRA is there for them.
Whether a member utilizes NCRA resources, gains momentum from the lobbyist, or knows the attorney will advise against harmful laws, NCRA is there for them.
When a student or new professional needs assistance, NCRA is there for them.
And when members gather at annual Conferences, NCRA gives everyone a pathway to grow professionally and personally.
It is critical that the proposed dues adjustment passes. I do not want to have to decide which program, support, pathway, or certification has to be cut because of the lack of money. Do you? I am voting “Yes” on the dues adjustment. I hope you are as well.
Find more information on the 2025 dues adjustment proposal
Voting on the 2025 dues adjustment proposal will begin within two hours of the Annual Business Meeting taking place on Aug. 1 in conjunction with the 2024 NCRA Conference & Expo.
Learn more about the proposal.
Pat Graves, FAPR, RDR, CRR, CRC, is a CART captioner and agency owner based in Monument, Colo. She can be reached at pat.graves@captionfirst.com.
