Discussion: View Thread

Fellow colleagues,

After nearly a decade of continuous membership with IARP, this is the first year I find myself genuinely questioning whether renewal is worth the $325 annual fee. While I've long valued professional associations as a space for shared growth and collaboration, I have grown increasingly discouraged by the overall direction and engagement within the organization.

The discussion boards, which should foster thoughtful professional exchange, often devolve into dismissive commentary or political tangents. When vocational topics are raised, too many conversations seem to circle back to SSVE work, which, for those of us who choose not to participate in that niche, leaves limited opportunity for meaningful engagement or knowledge exchange. Personally, I do not find SSVE work professionally fulfilling, nor do I enjoy spending my days on the phone being second-guessed by ALJs or attorneys.

In comparison with my experiences in organizations such as ABVE and AREA, I struggle to see what distinct educational or professional value IARP continues to offer its forensic members. At present, I do not feel I am gaining practical insight, professional development, or collegial collaboration proportionate to the financial commitment required.

I share this not to disparage the organization, but in the hope that constructive feedback might prompt reflection on how IARP can better serve professionals in all areas of rehabilitation and forensic practice-especially those of us seeking genuine advancement and exchange beyond the SSVE framework.

I welcome any conversation or rebuttal points. 

Thank you

Christopher Skerritt

Hello Christopher,

I understand the evaluation of professional and financial value you conduct every time you receive a renewal notice from a professional organization.

I do the same. I just received my renewal notice from ABVE ($320) this week. I will renew both ABVE and IARP since I receive a depth of knowledge, insight, and professional connections from that combination of associations that I would not realize from only one.

I share your displeasure with discussion board posts that begin "this is not a political post" and then continue to express a political or otherwise divisive opinion.  The 24-hour news cycle, social media and unhelpful discussion board posts have made me adept at swiping, deleting, muting, changing channels, and otherwise ignoring  such attempts to engage me.

If you do not practice as a Vocational Expert for the SSA disability process, you should not be inundated with SSVE content as they have a separate discussion board. I understand there are occasional posts on the forensic board however, it seems many of those posts are from folks who do not currently practice in that field.

As annoying as some posts can be, I know of no other professional association in our fields that offer discussion board access to their members (please correct me if I'm misinformed). In my experience the discussion boards have been invaluable to many members over the years. I benefit from learning from the educational content and professional conversations and happily ignore the annoying posts.

I know from visiting with you at past conferences you are a thoughtful, well-informed professional. I'm certain you have much to offer an association such as ours.

I would challenge you to volunteer on a committee of your interest or run for a board position in which you could guide the direction of the organization and effect positive changes.

Should you choose not to renew your membership I will miss attending your conference presentations and webinars on Artificial Intelligence specific to our professions.

I wish you all the best ~ Todd

Fellow colleagues,

After nearly a decade of continuous membership with IARP, this is the first year I find myself genuinely questioning whether renewal is worth the $325 annual fee. While I've long valued professional associations as a space for shared growth and collaboration, I have grown increasingly discouraged by the overall direction and engagement within the organization.

The discussion boards, which should foster thoughtful professional exchange, often devolve into dismissive commentary or political tangents. When vocational topics are raised, too many conversations seem to circle back to SSVE work, which, for those of us who choose not to participate in that niche, leaves limited opportunity for meaningful engagement or knowledge exchange. Personally, I do not find SSVE work professionally fulfilling, nor do I enjoy spending my days on the phone being second-guessed by ALJs or attorneys.

In comparison with my experiences in organizations such as ABVE and AREA, I struggle to see what distinct educational or professional value IARP continues to offer its forensic members. At present, I do not feel I am gaining practical insight, professional development, or collegial collaboration proportionate to the financial commitment required.

I share this not to disparage the organization, but in the hope that constructive feedback might prompt reflection on how IARP can better serve professionals in all areas of rehabilitation and forensic practice-especially those of us seeking genuine advancement and exchange beyond the SSVE framework.

I welcome any conversation or rebuttal points. 

Thank you

Christopher Skerritt

Hello Christopher,

I understand the evaluation of professional and financial value you conduct every time you receive a renewal notice from a professional organization.

I do the same. I just received my renewal notice from ABVE ($320) this week. I will renew both ABVE and IARP since I receive a depth of knowledge, insight, and professional connections from that combination of associations that I would not realize from only one.

I share your displeasure with discussion board posts that begin "this is not a political post" and then continue to express a political or otherwise divisive opinion.  The 24-hour news cycle, social media and unhelpful discussion board posts have made me adept at swiping, deleting, muting, changing channels, and otherwise ignoring  such attempts to engage me.

If you do not practice as a Vocational Expert for the SSA disability process, you should not be inundated with SSVE content as they have a separate discussion board. I understand there are occasional posts on the forensic board however, it seems many of those posts are from folks who do not currently practice in that field.

As annoying as some posts can be, I know of no other professional association in our fields that offer discussion board access to their members (please correct me if I'm misinformed). In my experience the discussion boards have been invaluable to many members over the years. I benefit from learning from the educational content and professional conversations and happily ignore the annoying posts.

I know from visiting with you at past conferences you are a thoughtful, well-informed professional. I'm certain you have much to offer an association such as ours.

I would challenge you to volunteer on a committee of your interest or run for a board position in which you could guide the direction of the organization and effect positive changes.

Should you choose not to renew your membership I will miss attending your conference presentations and webinars on Artificial Intelligence specific to our professions.

I wish you all the best ~ Todd

Fellow colleagues,

After nearly a decade of continuous membership with IARP, this is the first year I find myself genuinely questioning whether renewal is worth the $325 annual fee. While I've long valued professional associations as a space for shared growth and collaboration, I have grown increasingly discouraged by the overall direction and engagement within the organization.

The discussion boards, which should foster thoughtful professional exchange, often devolve into dismissive commentary or political tangents. When vocational topics are raised, too many conversations seem to circle back to SSVE work, which, for those of us who choose not to participate in that niche, leaves limited opportunity for meaningful engagement or knowledge exchange. Personally, I do not find SSVE work professionally fulfilling, nor do I enjoy spending my days on the phone being second-guessed by ALJs or attorneys.

In comparison with my experiences in organizations such as ABVE and AREA, I struggle to see what distinct educational or professional value IARP continues to offer its forensic members. At present, I do not feel I am gaining practical insight, professional development, or collegial collaboration proportionate to the financial commitment required.

I share this not to disparage the organization, but in the hope that constructive feedback might prompt reflection on how IARP can better serve professionals in all areas of rehabilitation and forensic practice-especially those of us seeking genuine advancement and exchange beyond the SSVE framework.

I welcome any conversation or rebuttal points. 

Thank you

Christopher Skerritt

Fellow colleagues,

After nearly a decade of continuous membership with IARP, this is the first year I find myself genuinely questioning whether renewal is worth the $325 annual fee. While I've long valued professional associations as a space for shared growth and collaboration, I have grown increasingly discouraged by the overall direction and engagement within the organization.

The discussion boards, which should foster thoughtful professional exchange, often devolve into dismissive commentary or political tangents. When vocational topics are raised, too many conversations seem to circle back to SSVE work, which, for those of us who choose not to participate in that niche, leaves limited opportunity for meaningful engagement or knowledge exchange. Personally, I do not find SSVE work professionally fulfilling, nor do I enjoy spending my days on the phone being second-guessed by ALJs or attorneys.

In comparison with my experiences in organizations such as ABVE and AREA, I struggle to see what distinct educational or professional value IARP continues to offer its forensic members. At present, I do not feel I am gaining practical insight, professional development, or collegial collaboration proportionate to the financial commitment required.

I share this not to disparage the organization, but in the hope that constructive feedback might prompt reflection on how IARP can better serve professionals in all areas of rehabilitation and forensic practice-especially those of us seeking genuine advancement and exchange beyond the SSVE framework.

I welcome any conversation or rebuttal points. 

Thank you

Christopher Skerritt

Dear Colleagues,

As President of the American Board of Vocational Experts (ABVE), I have followed the recent conversation with interest and respect for the thoughtful perspectives shared. Our professional community benefits most when dialogue remains grounded in evidence-based practice, collegial respect, and the shared goal of serving individuals with disabilities.

Professional listservs are strongest when they encourage constructive exchange and maintain focus on vocational and forensic practice. Precision in language matters-our work and testimony depend on clarity, objectivity, and measured communication.

Board certification through ABVE reflects a commitment to professional excellence, ethical integrity, and verified competency in vocational and forensic evaluation. Credentialing helps ensure consistency, fosters public confidence, and strengthens our credibility in both administrative and legal arenas.

As our field navigates complex challenges, from evolving technology to policy shifts, it is essential that we remain unified by professional standards and a commitment to service rather than divided by personal or political interpretations.

Thank you to all who continue to contribute thoughtfully to advancing the field.

Respectfully,

Maria A. Babinetz, MS, CRC, ABVE/D, IPEC, CCM, CDMS

Licensed Professional Counselor – PA

Licensed Rehabilitation Counselor – NJ

Signature Rehabilitation Services, LLC

Fellow colleagues,

After nearly a decade of continuous membership with IARP, this is the first year I find myself genuinely questioning whether renewal is worth the $325 annual fee. While I've long valued professional associations as a space for shared growth and collaboration, I have grown increasingly discouraged by the overall direction and engagement within the organization.

The discussion boards, which should foster thoughtful professional exchange, often devolve into dismissive commentary or political tangents. When vocational topics are raised, too many conversations seem to circle back to SSVE work, which, for those of us who choose not to participate in that niche, leaves limited opportunity for meaningful engagement or knowledge exchange. Personally, I do not find SSVE work professionally fulfilling, nor do I enjoy spending my days on the phone being second-guessed by ALJs or attorneys.

In comparison with my experiences in organizations such as ABVE and AREA, I struggle to see what distinct educational or professional value IARP continues to offer its forensic members. At present, I do not feel I am gaining practical insight, professional development, or collegial collaboration proportionate to the financial commitment required.

I share this not to disparage the organization, but in the hope that constructive feedback might prompt reflection on how IARP can better serve professionals in all areas of rehabilitation and forensic practice-especially those of us seeking genuine advancement and exchange beyond the SSVE framework.

I welcome any conversation or rebuttal points. 

Thank you

Christopher Skerritt

Fellow colleagues,

After nearly a decade of continuous membership with IARP, this is the first year I find myself genuinely questioning whether renewal is worth the $325 annual fee. While I've long valued professional associations as a space for shared growth and collaboration, I have grown increasingly discouraged by the overall direction and engagement within the organization.

The discussion boards, which should foster thoughtful professional exchange, often devolve into dismissive commentary or political tangents. When vocational topics are raised, too many conversations seem to circle back to SSVE work, which, for those of us who choose not to participate in that niche, leaves limited opportunity for meaningful engagement or knowledge exchange. Personally, I do not find SSVE work professionally fulfilling, nor do I enjoy spending my days on the phone being second-guessed by ALJs or attorneys.

In comparison with my experiences in organizations such as ABVE and AREA, I struggle to see what distinct educational or professional value IARP continues to offer its forensic members. At present, I do not feel I am gaining practical insight, professional development, or collegial collaboration proportionate to the financial commitment required.

I share this not to disparage the organization, but in the hope that constructive feedback might prompt reflection on how IARP can better serve professionals in all areas of rehabilitation and forensic practice-especially those of us seeking genuine advancement and exchange beyond the SSVE framework.

I welcome any conversation or rebuttal points. 

Thank you

Christopher Skerritt

Fellow colleagues,

After nearly a decade of continuous membership with IARP, this is the first year I find myself genuinely questioning whether renewal is worth the $325 annual fee. While I've long valued professional associations as a space for shared growth and collaboration, I have grown increasingly discouraged by the overall direction and engagement within the organization.

The discussion boards, which should foster thoughtful professional exchange, often devolve into dismissive commentary or political tangents. When vocational topics are raised, too many conversations seem to circle back to SSVE work, which, for those of us who choose not to participate in that niche, leaves limited opportunity for meaningful engagement or knowledge exchange. Personally, I do not find SSVE work professionally fulfilling, nor do I enjoy spending my days on the phone being second-guessed by ALJs or attorneys.

In comparison with my experiences in organizations such as ABVE and AREA, I struggle to see what distinct educational or professional value IARP continues to offer its forensic members. At present, I do not feel I am gaining practical insight, professional development, or collegial collaboration proportionate to the financial commitment required.

I share this not to disparage the organization, but in the hope that constructive feedback might prompt reflection on how IARP can better serve professionals in all areas of rehabilitation and forensic practice-especially those of us seeking genuine advancement and exchange beyond the SSVE framework.

I welcome any conversation or rebuttal points. 

Thank you

Christopher Skerritt

Fellow colleagues,

After nearly a decade of continuous membership with IARP, this is the first year I find myself genuinely questioning whether renewal is worth the $325 annual fee. While I've long valued professional associations as a space for shared growth and collaboration, I have grown increasingly discouraged by the overall direction and engagement within the organization.

The discussion boards, which should foster thoughtful professional exchange, often devolve into dismissive commentary or political tangents. When vocational topics are raised, too many conversations seem to circle back to SSVE work, which, for those of us who choose not to participate in that niche, leaves limited opportunity for meaningful engagement or knowledge exchange. Personally, I do not find SSVE work professionally fulfilling, nor do I enjoy spending my days on the phone being second-guessed by ALJs or attorneys.

In comparison with my experiences in organizations such as ABVE and AREA, I struggle to see what distinct educational or professional value IARP continues to offer its forensic members. At present, I do not feel I am gaining practical insight, professional development, or collegial collaboration proportionate to the financial commitment required.

I share this not to disparage the organization, but in the hope that constructive feedback might prompt reflection on how IARP can better serve professionals in all areas of rehabilitation and forensic practice-especially those of us seeking genuine advancement and exchange beyond the SSVE framework.

I welcome any conversation or rebuttal points. 

Thank you

Christopher Skerritt

Fellow colleagues,

After nearly a decade of continuous membership with IARP, this is the first year I find myself genuinely questioning whether renewal is worth the $325 annual fee. While I've long valued professional associations as a space for shared growth and collaboration, I have grown increasingly discouraged by the overall direction and engagement within the organization.

The discussion boards, which should foster thoughtful professional exchange, often devolve into dismissive commentary or political tangents. When vocational topics are raised, too many conversations seem to circle back to SSVE work, which, for those of us who choose not to participate in that niche, leaves limited opportunity for meaningful engagement or knowledge exchange. Personally, I do not find SSVE work professionally fulfilling, nor do I enjoy spending my days on the phone being second-guessed by ALJs or attorneys.

In comparison with my experiences in organizations such as ABVE and AREA, I struggle to see what distinct educational or professional value IARP continues to offer its forensic members. At present, I do not feel I am gaining practical insight, professional development, or collegial collaboration proportionate to the financial commitment required.

I share this not to disparage the organization, but in the hope that constructive feedback might prompt reflection on how IARP can better serve professionals in all areas of rehabilitation and forensic practice-especially those of us seeking genuine advancement and exchange beyond the SSVE framework.

I welcome any conversation or rebuttal points. 

Thank you

Christopher Skerritt

Fellow colleagues,

After nearly a decade of continuous membership with IARP, this is the first year I find myself genuinely questioning whether renewal is worth the $325 annual fee. While I've long valued professional associations as a space for shared growth and collaboration, I have grown increasingly discouraged by the overall direction and engagement within the organization.

The discussion boards, which should foster thoughtful professional exchange, often devolve into dismissive commentary or political tangents. When vocational topics are raised, too many conversations seem to circle back to SSVE work, which, for those of us who choose not to participate in that niche, leaves limited opportunity for meaningful engagement or knowledge exchange. Personally, I do not find SSVE work professionally fulfilling, nor do I enjoy spending my days on the phone being second-guessed by ALJs or attorneys.

In comparison with my experiences in organizations such as ABVE and AREA, I struggle to see what distinct educational or professional value IARP continues to offer its forensic members. At present, I do not feel I am gaining practical insight, professional development, or collegial collaboration proportionate to the financial commitment required.

I share this not to disparage the organization, but in the hope that constructive feedback might prompt reflection on how IARP can better serve professionals in all areas of rehabilitation and forensic practice-especially those of us seeking genuine advancement and exchange beyond the SSVE framework.

I welcome any conversation or rebuttal points. 

Thank you

Christopher Skerritt

Fellow colleagues,

After nearly a decade of continuous membership with IARP, this is the first year I find myself genuinely questioning whether renewal is worth the $325 annual fee. While I've long valued professional associations as a space for shared growth and collaboration, I have grown increasingly discouraged by the overall direction and engagement within the organization.

The discussion boards, which should foster thoughtful professional exchange, often devolve into dismissive commentary or political tangents. When vocational topics are raised, too many conversations seem to circle back to SSVE work, which, for those of us who choose not to participate in that niche, leaves limited opportunity for meaningful engagement or knowledge exchange. Personally, I do not find SSVE work professionally fulfilling, nor do I enjoy spending my days on the phone being second-guessed by ALJs or attorneys.

In comparison with my experiences in organizations such as ABVE and AREA, I struggle to see what distinct educational or professional value IARP continues to offer its forensic members. At present, I do not feel I am gaining practical insight, professional development, or collegial collaboration proportionate to the financial commitment required.

I share this not to disparage the organization, but in the hope that constructive feedback might prompt reflection on how IARP can better serve professionals in all areas of rehabilitation and forensic practice-especially those of us seeking genuine advancement and exchange beyond the SSVE framework.

I welcome any conversation or rebuttal points. 

Thank you

Christopher Skerritt

Fellow colleagues,

After nearly a decade of continuous membership with IARP, this is the first year I find myself genuinely questioning whether renewal is worth the $325 annual fee. While I've long valued professional associations as a space for shared growth and collaboration, I have grown increasingly discouraged by the overall direction and engagement within the organization.

The discussion boards, which should foster thoughtful professional exchange, often devolve into dismissive commentary or political tangents. When vocational topics are raised, too many conversations seem to circle back to SSVE work, which, for those of us who choose not to participate in that niche, leaves limited opportunity for meaningful engagement or knowledge exchange. Personally, I do not find SSVE work professionally fulfilling, nor do I enjoy spending my days on the phone being second-guessed by ALJs or attorneys.

In comparison with my experiences in organizations such as ABVE and AREA, I struggle to see what distinct educational or professional value IARP continues to offer its forensic members. At present, I do not feel I am gaining practical insight, professional development, or collegial collaboration proportionate to the financial commitment required.

I share this not to disparage the organization, but in the hope that constructive feedback might prompt reflection on how IARP can better serve professionals in all areas of rehabilitation and forensic practice-especially those of us seeking genuine advancement and exchange beyond the SSVE framework.

I welcome any conversation or rebuttal points. 

Thank you

Christopher Skerritt

Fellow colleagues,

After nearly a decade of continuous membership with IARP, this is the first year I find myself genuinely questioning whether renewal is worth the $325 annual fee. While I've long valued professional associations as a space for shared growth and collaboration, I have grown increasingly discouraged by the overall direction and engagement within the organization.

The discussion boards, which should foster thoughtful professional exchange, often devolve into dismissive commentary or political tangents. When vocational topics are raised, too many conversations seem to circle back to SSVE work, which, for those of us who choose not to participate in that niche, leaves limited opportunity for meaningful engagement or knowledge exchange. Personally, I do not find SSVE work professionally fulfilling, nor do I enjoy spending my days on the phone being second-guessed by ALJs or attorneys.

In comparison with my experiences in organizations such as ABVE and AREA, I struggle to see what distinct educational or professional value IARP continues to offer its forensic members. At present, I do not feel I am gaining practical insight, professional development, or collegial collaboration proportionate to the financial commitment required.

I share this not to disparage the organization, but in the hope that constructive feedback might prompt reflection on how IARP can better serve professionals in all areas of rehabilitation and forensic practice-especially those of us seeking genuine advancement and exchange beyond the SSVE framework.

I welcome any conversation or rebuttal points. 

Thank you

Christopher Skerritt

Fellow colleagues,

After nearly a decade of continuous membership with IARP, this is the first year I find myself genuinely questioning whether renewal is worth the $325 annual fee. While I've long valued professional associations as a space for shared growth and collaboration, I have grown increasingly discouraged by the overall direction and engagement within the organization.

The discussion boards, which should foster thoughtful professional exchange, often devolve into dismissive commentary or political tangents. When vocational topics are raised, too many conversations seem to circle back to SSVE work, which, for those of us who choose not to participate in that niche, leaves limited opportunity for meaningful engagement or knowledge exchange. Personally, I do not find SSVE work professionally fulfilling, nor do I enjoy spending my days on the phone being second-guessed by ALJs or attorneys.

In comparison with my experiences in organizations such as ABVE and AREA, I struggle to see what distinct educational or professional value IARP continues to offer its forensic members. At present, I do not feel I am gaining practical insight, professional development, or collegial collaboration proportionate to the financial commitment required.

I share this not to disparage the organization, but in the hope that constructive feedback might prompt reflection on how IARP can better serve professionals in all areas of rehabilitation and forensic practice-especially those of us seeking genuine advancement and exchange beyond the SSVE framework.

I welcome any conversation or rebuttal points. 

Thank you

Christopher Skerritt

Fellow colleagues,

After nearly a decade of continuous membership with IARP, this is the first year I find myself genuinely questioning whether renewal is worth the $325 annual fee. While I've long valued professional associations as a space for shared growth and collaboration, I have grown increasingly discouraged by the overall direction and engagement within the organization.

The discussion boards, which should foster thoughtful professional exchange, often devolve into dismissive commentary or political tangents. When vocational topics are raised, too many conversations seem to circle back to SSVE work, which, for those of us who choose not to participate in that niche, leaves limited opportunity for meaningful engagement or knowledge exchange. Personally, I do not find SSVE work professionally fulfilling, nor do I enjoy spending my days on the phone being second-guessed by ALJs or attorneys.

In comparison with my experiences in organizations such as ABVE and AREA, I struggle to see what distinct educational or professional value IARP continues to offer its forensic members. At present, I do not feel I am gaining practical insight, professional development, or collegial collaboration proportionate to the financial commitment required.

I share this not to disparage the organization, but in the hope that constructive feedback might prompt reflection on how IARP can better serve professionals in all areas of rehabilitation and forensic practice-especially those of us seeking genuine advancement and exchange beyond the SSVE framework.

I welcome any conversation or rebuttal points. 

Thank you

Christopher Skerritt

------------------------------
Christopher Skerritt CRC, CVE, IPEC, ABVE/F, CLCP, MSCC

Kincaid Wolstein Vocational & Rehabilitation Services
1 University Plaza ~ Suite 302
Hackensack, New Jersey 07601

T: (201) 343-0700  F: (201) 343-0757
M: (203) 605-2814
------------------------------

Several years ago I became much more involved in discussions, as at the time there was someone in particular who was ... abusive in some ways, and I am old and I just don't care if I stick my neck out these days. I know of many who felt intimidated to post questions because of this person who is no longer a member here. I continue to receive personal messages from people who do not wish to post here but remember when I was much more active and wanted some assistance here and there. I admit things have gotten more quiet since then. 

I would formally like to invite people to post here. IARP has a fantastic system to do so.

As a part of my encouragement, please feel free to mention my name publicly or to ask me questions - even personally. I have worked on an average 120 cases in personal injury a year for 25+ years in AZ, UT, NV and MN, about 50/50 plaintiff vs defense, and I did SSVE work, I do hedonic rebuttals, I created Arizona's spousal maintenance (alimony) calculator, and I am also an economist who has published and presented in the forensic economics area particularly in the household services value area. 

I have only one criticism of IARP in that the RehabPro published a couple articles that were primarily economics on household service value from 2 authors who could never have been published in an economic journal. It's okay to do something like this as an organization/publisher, but only if the reviewers go outside and hire an economist who has published in that particular area to also be a reviewer. I don't think that was done here. I had to have this happen to me (as an example) - the Journal of Legal Economics hired a published VE to help review an article of mine, regarding Specific Vocational Preparation (skill levels) in the use of estimating an unskilled wage for valuing household services now that the ORS has new data available - the field of economics had never been able to account for skill level before with household services. 

My motivations these days are to give back to the community. I've volunteered with the State of AZ, and I've worked on publishing and presenting, and I've been a Board member of AREA for years, and I'm an IARP listserve poster. Anyways, ask questions, be vulnerable (I'm actually a die hard introvert ...), and go for it! I heard someone say 'you will only be older ... ' so take the opportunity you have today!

------------------------------
J. Matthew Sims, MC, MS
Vocational Economist
sims@simsandwhite.com
Flagstaff, AZ United States

Original Message:
Sent: 11-02-2025 21:21
From: Christopher Skerritt
Subject: Membership Renewal

Fellow colleagues,

After nearly a decade of continuous membership with IARP, this is the first year I find myself genuinely questioning whether renewal is worth the $325 annual fee. While I've long valued professional associations as a space for shared growth and collaboration, I have grown increasingly discouraged by the overall direction and engagement within the organization.

The discussion boards, which should foster thoughtful professional exchange, often devolve into dismissive commentary or political tangents. When vocational topics are raised, too many conversations seem to circle back to SSVE work, which, for those of us who choose not to participate in that niche, leaves limited opportunity for meaningful engagement or knowledge exchange. Personally, I do not find SSVE work professionally fulfilling, nor do I enjoy spending my days on the phone being second-guessed by ALJs or attorneys.

In comparison with my experiences in organizations such as ABVE and AREA, I struggle to see what distinct educational or professional value IARP continues to offer its forensic members. At present, I do not feel I am gaining practical insight, professional development, or collegial collaboration proportionate to the financial commitment required.

I share this not to disparage the organization, but in the hope that constructive feedback might prompt reflection on how IARP can better serve professionals in all areas of rehabilitation and forensic practice-especially those of us seeking genuine advancement and exchange beyond the SSVE framework.

I welcome any conversation or rebuttal points. 

Thank you

Christopher Skerritt

------------------------------
Christopher Skerritt CRC, CVE, IPEC, ABVE/F, CLCP, MSCC

Kincaid Wolstein Vocational & Rehabilitation Services
1 University Plaza ~ Suite 302
Hackensack, New Jersey 07601

T: (201) 343-0700  F: (201) 343-0757
M: (203) 605-2814
------------------------------

Fellow colleagues,

After nearly a decade of continuous membership with IARP, this is the first year I find myself genuinely questioning whether renewal is worth the $325 annual fee. While I've long valued professional associations as a space for shared growth and collaboration, I have grown increasingly discouraged by the overall direction and engagement within the organization.

The discussion boards, which should foster thoughtful professional exchange, often devolve into dismissive commentary or political tangents. When vocational topics are raised, too many conversations seem to circle back to SSVE work, which, for those of us who choose not to participate in that niche, leaves limited opportunity for meaningful engagement or knowledge exchange. Personally, I do not find SSVE work professionally fulfilling, nor do I enjoy spending my days on the phone being second-guessed by ALJs or attorneys.

In comparison with my experiences in organizations such as ABVE and AREA, I struggle to see what distinct educational or professional value IARP continues to offer its forensic members. At present, I do not feel I am gaining practical insight, professional development, or collegial collaboration proportionate to the financial commitment required.

I share this not to disparage the organization, but in the hope that constructive feedback might prompt reflection on how IARP can better serve professionals in all areas of rehabilitation and forensic practice-especially those of us seeking genuine advancement and exchange beyond the SSVE framework.

I welcome any conversation or rebuttal points. 

Thank you

Christopher Skerritt

Hello Christopher -

I have struggled with this very question as well and given the sub chapters with additional fees, the price is really getting up there. I contemplated the same and chose to see how I can take the information from the other organizations I belong to and apply it to this professional organization. I find some of the sub chapters helpful in my practice. 

Foremost, what is important for organizations is engagement. If members feel engaged then membership sustains. As you can imagine engagement is multi-faceted. 

Fellow colleagues,

After nearly a decade of continuous membership with IARP, this is the first year I find myself genuinely questioning whether renewal is worth the $325 annual fee. While I've long valued professional associations as a space for shared growth and collaboration, I have grown increasingly discouraged by the overall direction and engagement within the organization.

The discussion boards, which should foster thoughtful professional exchange, often devolve into dismissive commentary or political tangents. When vocational topics are raised, too many conversations seem to circle back to SSVE work, which, for those of us who choose not to participate in that niche, leaves limited opportunity for meaningful engagement or knowledge exchange. Personally, I do not find SSVE work professionally fulfilling, nor do I enjoy spending my days on the phone being second-guessed by ALJs or attorneys.

In comparison with my experiences in organizations such as ABVE and AREA, I struggle to see what distinct educational or professional value IARP continues to offer its forensic members. At present, I do not feel I am gaining practical insight, professional development, or collegial collaboration proportionate to the financial commitment required.

I share this not to disparage the organization, but in the hope that constructive feedback might prompt reflection on how IARP can better serve professionals in all areas of rehabilitation and forensic practice-especially those of us seeking genuine advancement and exchange beyond the SSVE framework.

I welcome any conversation or rebuttal points. 

Thank you

Christopher Skerritt