By: Karen Maggine
My IAIP story isn’t a typical one—and that’s exactly why I’m sharing it.
I’ve been a member for over 15 years. For a long time, though, I was mostly just “going through the motions.” I attended locally, showed up when I could, made connections and felt like I was getting some benefit—but I didn’t truly understand the full impact membership could have on my life. Not at the Regional level. Not at the International level.
That all changed when I attended my first Convention in 2024.
Finding My Voice—and My People
That convention was the turning point. It’s hard to explain exactly what shifted, but I’ll try.
I challenged myself——to step outside my comfort zone (which for me, is sometimes pretty hard). But I promise you this: it really does get easier the more you do it.
I found my voice—and I wasn’t as afraid to use it anymore.
I gained confidence, because others showed faith in me. They asked me to take on roles, trusted me with responsibility, and gently nudged (ok, sometimes pushed) me when I needed a little encouragement.
I felt a sense of pride.
I had a sense of belonging.
I felt I had found “my people”.
Suddenly, IAIP wasn’t just an organization, it was a large, but close-knit community. One that was caring, helpful, supportive, and genuinely invested in one another.
Growth I Never Expected
After that first Convention, everything seemed to change for me.
I re-developed my thirst for knowledge and learning. I felt inspired, driven, and invigorated. I earned two designations through IAIP and started working on a third.
People I met became mentors. They reached out afterward. They cheered me on. They challenged me. They checked in. This was an added benefit I never expected.
I am grateful for those mentors, those leaders. They believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself. They asked me to step into leadership roles I wasn’t sure I was ready for — but I trusted them when they said they would be there to guide me if I needed it.
You Get Out of It What You Put Into It
Looking back, I honestly didn’t understand the full benefit of membership until the past few years. I didn’t “get it.” I didn’t see the whole picture.
But IAIP and its members didn’t give up on me.
The connections.
The mentors.
The learning.
The support.
The fun.
Even retirees stay involved because of the strong relationships they’ve built—and I think that says everything.
So I’ll Ask You This…
What are you waiting for?
I challenge you to:
Embrace the opportunities.
Get involved.
Invest in your future.
No matter if you have just joined or are a long-time member, like me.
Let yourself be challenged. Step outside your comfort zone (even when it feels hard).
Push yourself just a little more than feels comfortable. The rewards are worth it.
I can’t fully explain it. I can’t quite put my finger on it. But I know this:
I am blessed.
I am grateful.
And I am hooked.
Dive in—I promise you won’t regret it!