Kansas OCCUPATIONAL therapy ASSOCIATION 

1. Connection: You are connected to a larger group banded together to produce positive results for public health in our region.

2. Annual Educational Conference: The Annual Conference provides quality education and networking for public health professionals, and you receive a SIGNIFICANT discount by being a member.  You can contribute to the content, help plan the Conference or attend to enhance your professional development.

3. Public Policy / Advocacy: You can contribute to the strong advocacy program centered on assuring that public health voices are being heard.  The Legislative Committee prepares legislative updates/alerts, and keeps track of public health issues under consideration by the State Legislature. KOTA contracts with a lobbyist to advocate for priority public health issues.

4. Free Informational Services: KOTA updates of emerging issues relevant to public health. You remain informed about public health in our region in a way that saves you time. 

5. Networking: You have many opportunities to network with public health professionals in our region, building your contacts, sharing ideas, best practices and solutions to enhance your current job, find opportunities for career enhancement, etc. Networking events range from Annual Conferences to district meetings. 

6. Affiliation: You will have affiliation with YOUR professional association and over 500 public health professionals in our region.

7. Leadership Opportunities: You are provided opportunities to learn and practice leadership and meeting management skills that you may need for your resume, professional growth or self-promotion.  Opportunities are available on the Board, committees and special projects.

8. Recognition: You can be recognized or can recognize your colleagues for their achievements in public health.  Some of our heroes work right next to us every day! We have three great awards where we recognize OTs each year. 

9. Empowerment: You are part of a larger community.  You are empowered to get involved in issues that affect your personal and professional communities and your quality of life.