Looking for HOA- and condo-specific industry resources? The Community Associations Institute (CAI) is the premier association for HOA and condo managers in the U.S. Anyone working in these markets should check CAI out because they have a ton of support and educational resources available to members. In addition, CAI is directly affiliated with the Foundation for Community Association Research, a nonprofit that conducts studies and collects data that matter to community association managers.
Understanding these organizations can help community leaders make effective use of available resources for strategic planning and governance. Let’s look at the history of CAI and the Foundation to give you a better understanding of what they have to offer.
Learn more about property management associations in the U.S.
History of CAI & the Foundation
CAI was founded in 1973 to help professionalize association managers through educational resources and access to a connected community. Today, it represents the interests of community associations nationwide. It has grown into a significant resource for education, information and advocacy, boasting over 47,000 members worldwide. These members include community managers, management company executives, homeowner leaders and business partners.
The Foundation was established in 1975. It complements CAI’s work by focusing on research and data collection. Unlike CAI, which directly engages with members, the Foundation is a charitable organization conducting research to understand trends, issues and best practices in community management.
Both play crucial roles in enhancing community associations. While CAI is focused on member services, education and advocacy, the Foundation provides data-driven support for more informed decision-making.
Resources provided by CAI
CAI serves as the primary educational and advocacy organization for community associations, offering a range of resources to help HOA boards and managers navigate their roles effectively.
Educational courses
CAI provides numerous educational resources for board members, community managers and homeowners. These courses cover best practices in areas like financial management, legal compliance, community engagement and strategic planning. “Education is the core of CAI’s mission,” said Jake Gold, director of education at CAI. “We want community leaders to feel empowered to make the best decisions for their communities.”
CAI’s courses include both online and in-person options, addressing topics like community leadership, financial management and strategic planning. For instance, the M-203 Community Leadership course teaches community managers how to align daily operations with the community’s long-term objectives. “We cover everything from goal setting to aligning operations with the community’s vision,” said Jake.
Publications
CAI’s publications include magazines, newsletters and books on governance, strategic planning and best practices in community management. These resources provide actionable insights, case studies and guidance to help community leaders implement effective strategies.
Research library
CAI’s research library offers a collection of articles, research papers and reports covering a wide range of community management topics. “The research library goes back as far as the 1980s, providing a depth of history and knowledge on community management,” Jake noted. This library is a valuable resource for those wanting to deepen their understanding of complex issues like strategic governance and financial planning.
CAI Exchange
CAI Exchange is an online platform for members to pose questions and learn from the experiences of other community association leaders. It helps leaders navigate their own processes by learning from real-world experiences.
Best practice reportsThe Foundation produces best practice reports that provide practical guidelines on various topics. They’re available to anyone, offering a researched, step-by-step approach to community management. “These best practice reports offer foundational guidance that community leaders can act on right away,” said Jake.
Advocacy & representation
CAI advocates for policies that benefit community associations at both state and national levels. Their lobbying efforts ensure that laws and regulations reflect the needs of community associations, making it easier for these communities to thrive.
CAI & the Foundation: a winning combination
Both CAI and the Foundation collaborate to better support community associations. CAI focuses on practical aspects such as education, advocacy and resource sharing. The Foundation conducts research that informs and supports these efforts.
Put another way, CAI equips community leaders to fulfill their roles effectively. The Foundation, meanwhile, supplies the data and insights that allow these leaders to make well-informed decisions. Together, they help build stronger, well-managed communities capable of facing challenges head-on.
By leveraging these resources, HOA managers and board members can build expertise, stay informed about industry best practices and lead their communities with confidence.
Special thanks to Jake Gold, director of education at CAI, for contributing to the content of this article.
