CAI’s Government and Public Affairs team recently asked CAI members to share why they advocate on behalf of the community association industry. We received thoughtful answers. A reserve professional in Florida says he advocates because he believes in “the power of community.” This sentiment captures exactly how CAI’s Government and Public Affairs team feels approaching the end of 2025. We are honored to work alongside a diverse and expansive community of volunteers who show up, speak up, and advocate for policies that strengthen community associations and highlight the power of community,
“As a CAI member, I advocate for policy changes that support not only my community but other communities as well. I strive to help build a strong, lasting foundation for the industries that share our common goals while working with elected officials to effectively communicate our needs.” – Marc G., a service provider from Nevada
Commitment to one’s own community, as well as communities nationwide, is at the heart of CAI’s grassroots advocacy. This year, CAI’s grassroots network played a key role in earning significant recognition for our work on the Corporate Transparency Act, a nationwide campaign resulting in a 10% increase to CAI’s advocacy network. Momentum continued to build at the state level, with more than 4,000 new advocates (and over 4,000 returning advocates) engaging in state-focused efforts. Collectively, these 8,500 advocates sent over 23,000 messages to their elected officials on key bills affecting community associations. This sustained engagement strengthens our industry’s foundation by ensuring lawmakers hear directly from communities.
“As a CAI member, I advocate for policy change to create communities that are inclusive, fair, and future ready. Policies that are reflective of the voices and needs of everyone from homeowners to board members—build stronger, more transparent systems truly supporting the people who live and work in them.” – Brittany G., a community manager from Virginia
Inclusive communities align directly with the mission of CAI’s state Legislative Action Committees. More than 600 CAI member advocates serve on these 37 state-level, volunteer-driven committees to ensure state policy reflects the voices of all who live and work in community associations. This year, LACs reviewed and monitored over 2,400 bills. Throughout 64 state campaigns, over 8,500 advocates sent over 23,000 emails to their state elected officials. From homeowners to community managers to business partners, LAC volunteers worked tirelessly to educate lawmakers and advocate for fair and transparent systems supportive of strong community governance.
“As a CAI member and manager, I advocate for policy change because I want Congress to have a better understanding of who we are and how many people we actually represent across the nation.” – Catherine D.W., an individual manager from Virginia
Ensuring Congress understands the scope and importance of community associations was brought to life at CAI’s 2025 Congressional Advocacy Summit. On Nov. 6, 195 CAI members from 30 states and Washington, D.C., participated in 145 in-person meetings on Capitol Hill. An additional 91 members extended this reach through a virtual campaign – sending 271 emails to 131 congressional offices. This historic participation broadened Congressional understanding of the community associations housing model and strengthened our voice on Capitol Hill.
Bolstering this work, CAI’s Federal Legislative Action Committee monitors and responds to federal legislation and champions CAI’s 2025 public policies such as insurance affordability, disaster relief funding, and Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac transparency. Over the course of the year, over 12,000 advocates participated in federal campaigns, sending nearly 40,000 emails to federal lawmakers. Together, these efforts strengthen the voices of the people who live and work in community associations and help ensure lawmakers understand the everyday needs and experiences of our members.
“As a CAI member, I enjoy actively participating in meaningful conversation that can drive positive change in policy that affects HOAs.” – Esther M., an individual manager from Maryland
Collaboration is key for CAI’s Government and Public Affairs Committee. In 2025, the committee updated CAI public policy on assessment limitation increases, as well as the policy on reserve studies and funding. This committee’s work ensures our advocacy positions are informed, current, and capable of guiding effective policy change. Over 150 people from over 35 states attended the 2025 Government & Public Affairs meeting in May, engaging in meaningful conversations, sharing state-level developments, and analyzing federal trends.
To our volunteers—thank you. Your work and continuous dedication strengthen CAI. As we look ahead, we are excited for the opportunities of a new year. Take a moment to let us know why YOU advocate for policy change as a CAI member.
Looking to get more involved in 2026? If you haven’t joined our advocacy network yet, there’s no better time to start. A fresh New Year’s resolution can be just around the corner—sign up to be an advocate or support your state’s LAC.
