Benefits of Membership
Networking Opportunities
Through the membership directory, website and e-mail distribution system, members are easily and quickly connected to experienced executive directors, consultants, vendors and other revitalization experts, who can share their experience and expertise to address immediate challenges and guide long term planning.
Continuing Professional Education
The Annual Conference offers excellent educational and networking opportunities. Our commitment to keeping conferences affordable – offered at a significant discount to California Downtown Association members – is based upon our mission to serve not only those members working for well-funded urban associations, but also to serve the many small districts whose limited budgets generally restrict staff attendance at other statewide and national conferences offering comparable curricula.
Certification Program
The Certified Downtown Professional (CDP) program was developed to enhance professional standards and provide a designation to those who have garnered expertise in the downtown revitalization profession. In addition, Continuing Education Units (CEUs) will be earned and a permanent transcript at the university will be created.
Quarterly Newsletter
This publication is distributed quarterly to California Downtown Association members and vendor sponsors. It is designed to keep members informed about upcoming events, business district news and legislation. Industry experts are invited to contribute articles, and members are encouraged to use the newsletter to share accomplishments.
Annual Achievement Awards
The California Downtown Association achievement awards recognize outstanding efforts by cities, downtown organizations, business districts and redevelopment agencies to meet the ever-growing challenges of development and business district revitalization. The purpose of the awards is to celebrate and honor those in California whose efforts in developing programs and design projects contribute to the success of their communities.
Website
The website has many valuable benefits including current news postings, related industry links, a calendar of events and job postings for those searching for staff, or for members searching for new professional opportunities.
Legislative and Member Advocacy
Through our newsletter, email network and website, California Downtown Association members remain informed about pending legislation that may impact business district development and associations. Moreover, California Downtown Association has the stature within the state to effectively represent the interests of our members to the state legislature.
Our members find enormous value in the opportunities presented for networking with peers and appreciate California Downtown Association's commitment to providing educational opportunities on par with other organizations, at fees even the smallest organizations can manage.
