Discover the 2024 MRA Annual Training Conference

Engage, Equip, & Empower for Sustainable Success June 12-14, 2024 Tan-Tar-A Margaritaville Lake Resort

Join us for the upcoming Missouri Rehabilitation Association State Conference, where the theme is "Engage, Equip, & Empower for Sustainable Success." This transformative event is designed to inspire and equip individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of rehabilitation. By participating in engaging sessions led by industry experts, attendees will gain valuable insights, innovative strategies, and practical tools to enhance their professional journey. The conference serves as a platform for networking, collaboration, and empowerment, fostering a community committed to sustainable success. Don't miss this opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, gain fresh perspectives, and leave feeling empowered to make a lasting impact. Register now to be part of this enriching experience and take the next step towards achieving your goals in rehabilitation.

MRA is pleased to offer conference entertainment, a silent auction, networking, games, raffles, awards, and opportunities to get involved with MRA.

Save the Date Image

Share your knowledge and submit a proposal to be a presenter!

Deadline to submit proposals is March 31, 2024.

Show your support for the conference by becoming a sponsor or exhibitor!

Missouri Rehabilitation Association is looking for 2024 conference sponsors. In addition to reserving your agency's exhibit space, please consider becoming a sponsor to highlight your partnership throughout the conference including in conference app communications, logo displayed on conference screens, acknowledgment on social media and webpage all year! Sponsorship rates start at $250.

Register now and receive the early bird discount (ends 5/3/2024). Various registration options are available.

Attendees will receive certified rehabilitation counselor continuing education credits , a hot breakfast each morning and banquet lunch on Thursday. Engage in multiple networking opportunities.

Call for Nominations!

Missouri Rehabilitation Association Annual Awards 

Missouri Rehabilitation Association recognizes outstanding contributions to the profession at the annual MRA Conference 2024 scheduled for June 12-14, 2024, at Margaritaville Lake Resort in Osage Beach, MO. Please consider submitting a nomination.

Nomination Form

Elevating Your Career: The Power of Joining a Professional Organization

Starting your career or pursuing professional advancement is an exciting yet challenging journey. To give your career a significant boost, consider becoming a member of a professional organization. In this blog post, we'll explore the numerous benefits of joining such organizations and guide you through the process of finding the right one for your specific needs.

Define Your Goals

Before delving into the world of professional organizations, it's essential to define your objectives. Are you looking to network, enhance your professional development, or both? Clearly articulating your goals will help you align your ambitions with the mission of the organization. To find the perfect match, invest time in researching various organizations and their offerings.

Harness the Power of Social Media

In today's digital age, social media platforms are invaluable for acquainting yourself with professional organizations. Follow these organizations on platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, or Facebook to gain insights into their activities, upcoming events, and the community of professionals they engage with. Social media also provides an avenue to interact with current members and like-minded professionals, helping you gauge the organization's culture and values.

Attend a Meeting

Attending a board meeting can offer you a unique glimpse into the inner workings of a professional organization. Many organizations hold open meetings that welcome non-member participation. By participating, you can assess whether the organization aligns with its online representation and gain a deeper understanding of its operations. This firsthand experience can help you determine if the organization is a good fit for your career goals.

Join a Committee

If you're still uncertain about making a full commitment, consider getting involved in a committee within the organization. These groups often play a crucial role in planning and executing events and activities. Joining a committee allows you to start building relationships with current members, expand your professional network, and gain a more profound understanding of the organization's inner workings. It's a low-commitment way to evaluate if the organization aligns with your career aspirations.

Become an At-Large Board Member

For those eager to take a more active role in the organization, becoming an "at-large" board member may be the ideal choice. At-large positions are versatile, allowing you to participate in various aspects of the organization's operations. This role is perfect for individuals looking to gain leadership experience and a comprehensive overview of the organization's activities.

Join with a Friend

Entering a professional organization alongside a friend, whether it's a classmate or colleague, can ease the transition and maximize the benefits of membership. It's an excellent strategy to become part of an organization without feeling like the "new kid on the block." Moreover, professional organizations often seek to expand their membership, making it a mutually beneficial decision for all involved.

Benefits of Joining a Professional Organization

Now that we've explored the process of selecting the right professional organization, let's delve into the wealth of advantages that membership brings.

Networking Opportunities

Professional organizations offer a wide array of networking opportunities, connecting you with a diverse group of individuals within your field. This network includes experts, peers, and potential mentors, all of whom can play a pivotal role in your professional journey. Networking can lead to collaborations, partnerships, and even job opportunities that might not be accessible elsewhere.

Access to Resources

Many professional organizations provide exclusive resources that can significantly enhance your knowledge and skills. These resources often include research papers, case studies, industry reports, and toolkits that may not be available to non-members or the general public. By tapping into these resources, you can stay updated with the latest industry trends and gain a competitive edge in your career.

Conclusion

Joining a professional organization is a strategic move for both budding professionals and those aiming for career advancement. By following the steps we've outlined and carefully selecting an organization that aligns with your goals, you can unlock a wealth of opportunities, from networking and professional development to access to invaluable resources. These organizations serve as stepping stones to success and platforms for personal and professional growth. So, take the leap and embark on your journey to a brighter future in your chosen field!

Empowering NDEAM: How Local and State Rehabilitation Organizations Support Disability Employment

October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM). This annual observance serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of inclusivity and diversity in the workplace. NDEAM celebrates the talents, skills, and contributions of individuals with disabilities, highlighting their immense potential and the value they bring to organizations.

In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the need to break down barriers and create more equitable opportunities for people with disabilities in the workforce. The theme of NDEAM this year, "Advancing Access and Equity”.

Local and state-level rehabilitation counseling professional organizations play a crucial role in supporting National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) by promoting awareness, education, and advocacy for the employment rights and opportunities of individuals with disabilities. Here are several ways these organizations can contribute to NDEAM:

1. Organize Events and Workshops: Host awareness events, workshops, and seminars that focus on disability employment issues. These events can provide valuable information on disability inclusion, reasonable accommodations, and best practices for employers and employees.

2. Collaborate with Local Businesses: Establish partnerships with local businesses and employers to encourage them to participate in NDEAM activities. Encourage these organizations to hire individuals with disabilities and provide support in creating inclusive workplaces.

3. Advocacy and Policy Initiatives: Advocate for policies and legislation at the state and local levels that promote equal employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities. Support efforts to strengthen anti-discrimination laws and ensure compliance with disability-related regulations.

4. Educational Campaigns: Launch educational campaigns targeting employers, employees, and the general public. These campaigns can dispel myths and stereotypes about disabilities and highlight the benefits of a diverse and inclusive workforce.

5. Networking Opportunities: Facilitate networking events where rehabilitation counselors can connect with employers, individuals with disabilities, and other professionals in the disability employment field. These events can lead to job placements and collaborations.

6. Resource Sharing: Compile and share resources related to disability employment, such as toolkits, guides, and success stories. These resources can help rehabilitation counselors and their clients navigate the job market.

7. Support for Job Seekers: Offer job placement assistance, career counseling, and training programs for individuals with disabilities. Provide guidance on resume building, interview skills, and job search strategies.

8. Highlight Success Stories: Showcase success stories of individuals with disabilities who have overcome challenges to achieve meaningful employment. These stories can serve as inspiration and motivation for others.

9. Engage with Schools and Universities: Partner with local educational institutions to promote disability awareness and inclusion from an early age. Encourage students with disabilities to consider various career options and provide guidance on transitioning from school to work.

10. Social Media Campaigns: Utilize social media platforms to raise awareness about NDEAM and share relevant information, stories, and resources. Use hashtags and shareable content to engage a broader audience.

11. Collaborate with National Organizations: Partner with national disability advocacy organizations and participate in their NDEAM initiatives. This can amplify the impact of your efforts and provide access to additional resources.

12. Collect and Share Data: Collect data on disability employment trends in your local or state area and share this information with policymakers, employers, and the public. Data can be a powerful tool for advocating for change.

By taking these proactive steps, local and state-level rehabilitation counseling professional organizations can make a significant contribution to National Disability Employment Awareness Month. Their efforts can help create a more inclusive workforce and improve the employment prospects and quality of life for individuals with disabilities in their communities.

MRA Current Priorities & Initiatives

As the President of MRA, I am delighted to take this opportunity to share our current priorities and initiatives, which our state and local boards are diligently pursuing. Our commitment remains unwavering, with a focus on enhancing the value we provide to our members and the broader rehabilitation community.

First and foremost, our annual state training conference continues to be a cornerstone of our efforts. This event is designed to offer a platform for valuable networking, education, and social interaction. We understand the importance of rejuvenation in our demanding field, and this conference aims to provide just that. As many of you are aware, we also host our annual awards banquet during the conference. It is a momentous occasion where we come together to honor and celebrate the exceptional contributions of individuals within our community.

Over the past year, we have diligently worked on redesigning our website to better showcase MRA and our conference. Building on this progress, we are excited to announce our plans to expand our online presence. This year, we intend to launch a blog and incorporate numerous slideshows and videos that highlight the myriad benefits of MRA membership. Additionally, we are ramping up our efforts on social media platforms to ensure that engagement with our community is a year-round endeavor. Our goal is to create a vibrant and dynamic professional organization that serves you better.

Lastly, we are collaborating closely with our four local chapters to strengthen their support for our state members and other rehabilitation professionals. These local boards serve as the lifeblood of our organization and are often the first point of contact for individuals interested in MRA.

For more detailed information about MRA, I invite you to explore our website, as well as connect with us on social media via Facebook and Twitter (@MissouriRehabi1).

Thank you for your ongoing support and dedication to MRA. We are committed to advancing the field of rehabilitation and enhancing the experiences of our members. If you have any questions or suggestions, please do not hesitate to reach out.

Did You Know

A picture of a membership book on a chair.

Did you know there are multiple ways to get involved with the Missouri Rehabilitation Association (MRA)? By joining the National Rehabilitation Association, you automatically become a member of MRA and one of its four local chapters.

Unsure of the four local MRA chapters and what they can provide?

Chapters can be found in:

• Kansas City

• Springfield (Southwest chapter)

• Columbia (Heart of Missouri chapter)

• St. Louis (Eastern chapter)

Two of the greatest benefits of professional organizations include:

Networking Opportunities: While networking is a well-known benefit, the extent of it is often underestimated. Professional organizations provide you with access to a diverse group of individuals within your field, including experts, peers, and potential mentors. These connections can lead to collaborations, partnerships, and even job opportunities.

Access to Resources: Many professional organizations offer exclusive resources such as research papers, case studies, industry reports, and toolkits that can enhance your knowledge and skills. These resources might not be available to non-members or the general public.

Connect, Collaborate, Excel: Unlock Your Full Potential by Actively Participating in the Missouri Rehabilitation Association.

Interested in joining? There are 6 NRA membership options (membership dues range from $25-$150 annually)

• In addition, individuals have the option to join 12 different divisional memberships (costs range from an additional $24-$40 annually). Be clear, be confident and don’t overthink it. The beauty of your story is that it’s going to continue to evolve and your site can evolve with it. Your goal should be to make it feel right for right now. Later will take care of itself. It always does.

• Becoming a member is easy!

  • Go to the NRA website

  • Select Membership information

  • Select your membership category.

  • Register and pay your dues!

• National Membership Benefits

  Professional Journal

  Newsletters

  Free webinars

  Opportunity to participate on a national board.

• State Membership Benefits

  Access to a yearly state conference

  Meet and network with individuals from across the state

  Leadership opportunities

  Attend state awards banquet

• Local Membership Benefits

  Access to trainings and webinars

  Local networking and social opportunities

  Attend local awards banquet

  Participate on local boards