information available, on-line and otherwise, really has allowed the sophistication of Boards to increase exponentially over the past 40 years.”

Beyond the quantitative number of opportunities available to CAI members and the community at large, Steve notices a thread that can be traced to the origins of the organization: the spirit of friendliness and cooperation between the disparate interests within CAI. “What is really amazing to me is the relationships that have been able to be formed based on a shared commonality of purpose. CAI itself has developed a wonderful cooperation and culture of friendliness and warmth. It’s remarkable to me that the organization has consistently attracted individuals of the highest character. At CAI events to this day, I am touched by the number of friendships and relationships of trust that have developed through CAI.”

I see Steve survey the rows upon rows of CAI member organizations present at CAI’s annual trade show and exposition. “No one who chartered this organization could have envisioned the growth and expansion of scope of the CAI chapter.” The proliferation of businesses like banks, landscapers, pavers, reserve study specialists, engineers and others who work for community associations has only added to the ability of CAI members to maximize their experience with the organization. The ability of CAI to communicate and assist as it relates to legislation likewise is something that was far beyond the organization’s capabilities 40 years ago.

Despite all of the changes that Steve has seen, the core principles of his practice remain the same. “At the end of the day, it remains all about the quality of the relationships. That starts with Boards themselves, how they are able to work together and communicate. It continues with how the Board is able to utilize and respect the advice given to them by its professional service providers. While we are all businesses serving the community association field, it is everyone’s challenge to maintain relationships rather than framing services as a mere commodity.”

I am incredibly proud to continue the path that Steve has forged. I get to hear the wonderful stories of what it was like “back in the day.” I get to see the relationships Steve has maintained for as long as I have been alive. And I get to actually work day to day with Steve and continue to absorb all of the valuable lessons he is able to provide on a daily basis with his vast experience. We continue to abide by the core principles of relationship-building with Boards, management companies, and other individuals that work with community associations. I take a great deal of pride in being a part of the practice.

That pride likewise extends to our involvement with CAI. There are new lessons to be learned every day from our peers. The challenges faced by community associations continue to evolve.

14 | COMMON INTEREST® A Publication of CAI-Illinois Chapter