The founders of ARPAS recognized the need for local member representation within the organization and provided for the establishment of ARPAS Chapters. An article to address the establishment and governance of Chapters was included in the original ARPAS bylaws (Article XIV. Chapters). Our national ARPAS organization is highly dependent on the local chapters for support and to provide the future leaders of ARPAS. Exposure and service by members as a Chapter officer and as a representative to the ARPAS Governing Council are the ideal training for ARPAS officers. Many of the issues discussed at the national level originated within a local chapter, and many of the newly recruited members of ARPAS join because of exposure through their local chapter.

The first chapter was the California/Nevada ARPAS chapter, established in 1986; it was followed by the Arkansas and Pacific NW Chapters. Dedicated ARPAS members in the Western region saw an opportunity and a need for a more local organization that would foster interaction and recognition of ARPAS members and provide a forum for continuing education. They also wanted to encourage student involvement in ARPAS, raise money for scholarships, and have talented members participate in applied research projects directed at local and regional issues. The California chapter is the only chapter with at least 50 members, which is required for representation on the ARPAS Governing Council. Other chapters are growing and some will soon reach the required number of members for representation.

In a statement from the minutes of the January 1998 Governing Council meeting, President Lee Shell noted “that we need to continue to work on getting various ARPAS chapters to interact with the Governing Council. In particular, we need to encourage chapters to send reports to the Governing Council about their activities. ” We still encourage this interaction with the chapters and recognize that communication is a two-way street.

The current chapters of ARPAS are Arkansas (1989), California (1986), Colorado/Wyoming/Nebraska, Midwest (2010), Northeast (2010), Pacific NW (date unknown), Southern Plains (2007) and Washington DC (2002). The two newest chapters are in the process of developing bylaws and addressing membership and organizational issues and would welcome support from members in these areas.

Why do we need ARPAS Chapters? Chapters are the lifeblood of our organization, providing new ideas, new members, and new leaders. You are encouraged to get involved with your local chapter.