American Society of Association Executives Releases "Associations Matter" Study
March 18, 2012
In support of The Power of A Week and American Associations Day, the American Society of Association Executive’s annual legislative fly-in, the organization released its “Associations Matter” study.
The study indicated associations have a “profound, measurable economic and social impact on the nation,” according to ASAE officials.
The “Associations Matter” study primarily relies on U.S. government statistics and tax-exempt returns (Form 990s) to measure the economic and social benefits derived from association activities.
These statistics mainly focus on employment, wages, revenues and assets. The report also documents the contributions associations make to improve social conditions and Americans’ collective quality of life.
“This report does a wonderful job in providing a bigger picture about the impact associations have in keeping America competitive, improving the economy, providing opportunities for people to volunteer, and preparing our future leaders,” said ASAE President and CEO John H. Graham IV, CAE.
He added during the week highlighted associations, “This week, association professionals are coming together to advocate and raise awareness with policymakers about the role of associations and the issues that matter in our community. “Associations Matter” supports our advocacy goals by quantifying the association sector’s contributions in a very compelling, credible fashion.”
Here are some of the study’s highlights:
The number of trade and professional associations and charitable organizations has increased 3.4 percent since 2001.
Membership organizations employed more than 1.2 million in 2009.
Membership organizations generated a payroll of nearly $47 billion in 2010.
Associations represent a major piece of the meetings and conventions industry in the United States. The meetings industry supports 1.7 million jobs and accounts for $263 billion in spending.
Of the 63 million people who volunteered in the United States between September 2009 and September 2010, more than 18 million volunteered through a membership organization.
ASAE hosted its annual The Power of A Week to draw attention to the different ways associations are advancing the economy and society, according to ASAE officials.
The highlight of the week was ASAE’s annual legislative fly-in that was held March 14-15 with events throughout the week that showcased the benefits of associations.
More than 500 association professionals were expected to take part in The Power of A Week.
Partner Voices
MGM Resorts is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse culture, not just among employees and guests but also within its supply chain. The company prioritizes procuring goods and services from businesses owned by minorities, women, veterans, people with disabilities, LGBTQ individuals and those facing economic disadvantages. This commitment is integral to MGM Resorts' global procurement strategy.
Through its voluntary supplier diversity program, MGM Resorts actively identifies and connects certified diverse-owned suppliers to opportunities within its supply chain. The company is on track to spend at least 15% of its biddable procurement with diverse-owned businesses by 2025, demonstrating that supplier diversity is not only a social responsibility but also a strategic business imperative.
Supplier diversity isn’t just the right thing to do – it’s good for business. A diverse supply chain allows access to a broader range of perspectives and experience, helping to drive innovation, entrepreneurship and resilience, while strengthening communities. At MGM Resorts, engaging diverse suppliers ensures best-in-class experiences for guests and clients. Supplier diversity ensures a more resilient supply chain while supporting economic development in the communities in which it operates.
The impact of MGM Resorts' supplier diversity initiatives is significant. In 2023, these efforts supported over 3,500 jobs across more than 30 states, contributed over $214 million in income for diverse-owned businesses and generated more than $62 million in tax revenue. The story extends beyond the numbers – it reflects the tangible benefits brought to small and diverse-owned businesses, fostering economic empowerment in their communities.
MGM Resorts also supports the development and business skills of diverse-owned businesses through investment, mentorship and education. Through the MGM Resorts Supplier Diversity Mentorship Program, the company identifies, mentors and develops diverse-owned businesses to fill its future pipeline, while providing businesses with tools and resources to empower and uplift. Since 2017, the program has successfully graduated 105 diverse-owned businesses and is on track to achieve its goal of 150 graduates by 2025.
MGM Resorts’ commitment to supplier diversity not only enhances its business operations but also plays a crucial role in uplifting communities and fostering economic development. This approach reinforces the idea that diversity is a powerful driver of innovation and resilience, benefiting both the company and the wider community.
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