Like the adage "two heads are better than one," collaborative efforts to move our industry forward are far more effective than the "every man for himself" approach. Stewardship can be a forceful and satisfying means for advancing our association and our industry. It is also a gratifying means to enhance the well-being of the individuals who participate.

Industry stewards apply the same entrepreneurial energy and dedication to solving problems that successful shop owners apply to running their businesses. They work with other leaders, knowing those with the same goals in mind can further their cause exponentially.

Being a good steward requires one to be open to others' ideas, inclusive in the sharing of ideas and to take a cooperative approach to decision-making and governance. I think an association is an ideal way for people to come together to address common problems. We have many stewards among us. We can use more. Through involvement with a group such as ASA, you have the opportunity to set directions, solve problems and take action.

Thanks to the stewardship of individuals, ASA is putting its strategic plan in motion. Bonds with associations and similar industry groups have never been stronger. We continue to add new benefits and enhance the value of membership. I'm so proud of the work we've accomplished in recent months, and there's even more progress on the horizon.

ASA is a membership-driven organization, first and foremost. By meeting the needs of our members, we in turn create a better, stronger industry. ASA provides a collaborative means for focusing attention on a specific set of common concerns. Whether it's educating shop owners about information availability, or providing additional member benefit options, we're working toward the good of our members.

I strongly believe our association provides an ideal platform to nurture any tendencies you may have toward stewardship. If you are committed to the long-term well-being of our industry, I invite you to look closely at the opportunities available to you through increased involvement in ASA - whether it is at the local, regional or national level.

Meeting the challenges of our industry will best be achieved by working together. It's that simple. We want the same things: We all want to make a good living, provide for our families, repair vehicles correctly the first time and provide our customers with the safest vehicles. In addition, we share a goal to provide a solid work environment with necessary benefits for our employees, and become strong partners with the many businesses we work with each day.

Your involvement can lead to the betterment of your business, your employees, and of course, your customers. If we work toward fostering better communication and cooperation among diverse groups; develop strategies for change; and continue to implement powerful educational campaigns that inspire, empower and engage other shop owners to take action, how can we lose?

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