AOPA’s Volunteer Policy
Qualifications:
All employees of AOPA member companies are invited to apply to serve on an AOPA committee or workgroup. AOPA members must remain in good standing during the entire term of service.
All individuals serving on the AOPA Board or a committee shall be dedicated to the Association’s mission and to promoting the highest levels of orthotic/prosthetic patient care services and enhancing the image and standing of orthotic and prosthetic care and the association in the health care community and the public at large.
AOPA’s Mission Statement – Through advocacy, research and education, AOPA improves patient access to quality orthotic and prosthetic care.
Time Commitment:
Applicants are committing to a 2-year term and most committees meet face-to-face at least once per year with monthly conference calls lasting approximately one-hour per call. Additionally, applicants should understand that additional time commitments include reviewing materials and work geared towards accomplishing the goals of the specific committee. Please see the description and goals for each committee below.
Nomination Process:
On May 1 of each year, AOPA publicizes the call for volunteers announcement with a June 30 application deadline. Applications will be submitted to the AOPA President, President-Elect and Committee chair for review. Candidates will be selected based on their qualifications and the number of anticipated vacancies on each committee. Candidates will be notified by August 1 for terms beginning December 1.
| Annual Call For Volunteers Announcement | May 1 |
| Application deadline | June 30 |
| Notifications on application status | September 30 |
| Volunteer Service Begins | December 1 |
Learn more about the mission and responsibilities for each committee or workgroup below.
- Assembly Planning Committee
- Coding and Reimbursement Committee
- Government Relations Committee
- Government Relations Contributions/Fundraising
- Member Services Committee
- Operating Performance and Compensation Workgroup
- Research Committee
- State Representatives
- Veterans Affairs Committee
For additional information about the nominations process, please contact Betty Leppin at bleppin@AOPAnet.org, or Madison McTernan at mmcternan@AOPAnet.org
Frequently Asked Questions:
How are committee/workgroup members chosen?
AOPA’s President and committee chairs select committee members from the pool of volunteers. AOPA strives for diversity among its committee members so that there is better, more informed and collaborative decision making.
How are committee/workgroup chairs appointed?
Typically, chairs are appointed from the pool of active members from a specific committee.
Is there a stipend for volunteer service?
There is no stipend for serving as an AOPA volunteer. Some travel expenses, if required by the committee, are reimbursed. Travel to the National Assembly is not reimbursed; however, some committee members may receive a 50% discount for their Assembly registration.
Do I have to be a business owner to volunteer?
No, you do not need to be a business owner to volunteer… but you should make sure you have support from your employer for the time necessary to participate.
What are the specific duties of volunteering?
Please refer to the mission and responsibilities for each committee, as the level of involvement varies among committees.
Is there any recognition for completing volunteer service?
AOPA appreciates its diverse group of members and experts volunteering their time and energy to serve on committees that are the backbone of AOPA’s activities throughout the year. Volunteers are usually recognized in AOPA’s Annual report, on AOPA’s website, and other ways depending on the committee. All volunteers receive a frameable certificate of appreciation.
Will I need to travel?
Please refer to the specific mission and responsibilities for each committee regarding travel requirements.
Can I recommend someone for volunteer service?
We encourage you to share the opportunity with someone you would recommend.
Are volunteers asked to provide feedback about their experiences?
AOPA asks volunteers who are completing their service to complete an evaluation so that we can improve our program.