Women’s History Month: Strong women, strong communities
In celebration of Women’s History Month in March, Ungated profiles women in the community association industry who give their time, creativity, and expertise to mentor others, build relationships, protect investments, and enhance communities. These profiles reflect women’s significant influence and their impactful contributions to the common interest housing model. Meet Julie McGhee Howard and Theresa Melson.
Women’s History Month: Remembering the summer that changed my life
In honor of Women’s History Month, I want to recognize the women who shaped my professional journey, beginning with Lillian Boese. The summer after I graduated from high school I began my internship at the Zoological Society of Milwaukee, a nonprofit organization supporting the Milwaukee County Zoo. Serving others came naturally to me. I imagined pediatrics. And then I met Lillian Boese.
Preventing violence: Steps to recognize threats and protect your community
Community managers have a profound responsibility for the safety and well-being of residents and staff. At CAI’s 2025 CEO-MC Retreat in September, a security expert shared guidance for recognizing potential threats, de-escalating conflicts, and preventing violence.
Online meetings: How one community benefited from going virtual
The world has changed dramatically over the past few years and so has the way homeowners associations conduct business. Online meetings are essential tools for transparency, accessibility, and efficiency in the modern community association. Digital meetings mean more residents engage, more voices are heard, and more questions are answered proactively.
Preventive maintenance: 6 steps to secure a safe future for your community
The collapse of Champlain Towers South in Florida wasn’t just a tragic event, it was a wake-up call for community association and maintenance plans and programs. Since then, insurers have gotten stricter, lenders more cautious, and lawmakers busier than ever. With a little discipline and a plan, you can lead your community safely to the summit. Get started with a six-step preventive maintenance plan.
Mental health: Learning to acknowledge challenges, find support
There’s no shame in acknowledging mental health challenges. Reducing the stigma surrounding them is essential to healing and living a healthy and full life. We should seek out mental health professionals who can help us find our path back to being the best versions of ourselves.
Minnesota matters: Leadership, civility, and the call to build community
Like many of you, I’ve been watching what’s happening in Minneapolis, and it’s heavy. We’re feeling the impacts in our communities too. CAI members and community leaders across the globe have an opportunity to lead by building community and focusing on civility.
Navigating wildfires: Lessons learned from last year’s devastation in LA
One year ago, devastating wildfires ravaged communities throughout Los Angeles County. The fires became one of the worst — and possibly most costly — natural disasters in American history. Here’s how one community manager navigated the response and recovery with skill, confidence, and empathy.
Respecting boundaries: How community leaders can respond to harassment
It’s not uncommon for community association managers and board members to have days filled with high-stress situations, emotional exchanges, and difficult personalities, but there’s a clear line between a difficult day and harassment. Here’s how to recognize and respond to harassment.
Housing market: Community associations will continue to thrive in 2026
The housing market is expected to build on the gradual stabilization that began in 2025 this year and will see improvements in inventory, home sales, prices, and mortgage rates, according to 2026 predictions. In 2026, the Foundation for Community Association Research projects 3,000 to 4,000 new condominium communities and homeowners associations will be built, growing the total number of associations in the U.S. from approximately 373,000 at the end of 2025 to as many as 377,000 in 2026.
