Focus — Unification and You

collaborate and have a unified voice in Springfield for issues that are important.”

Expanded Networking Opportunities

“There’s a lot of uniqueness across the state but we also share a lot of the same challenges and problems whether it’s a rural market or a smaller suburban market or a market like Bloomington or Chicago,” Schmidt said. “It just makes sense for members to get to know each other, to network and to problem solve.” The opportunities to network are broad — from education and golf outings, to committee involvement and conferences.

“If you liked IGIA before, you will love being a part of both organizations as one,” Kramer said. “You have a very awesome resource at your disposal when needed. Believe me, it’s not if you’ll need help — it’s when. I encourage you not only to join the ILCA, but to volunteer on one of our many committees.”

Statewide the green industry is quite broad and diverse. “There are different kinds of businesses that are part of growing or offering services— large and small — but we’re tied together on the common thread of the outdoors, nature, and connecting people to it,” Thomas said. “The opportunity is having a statewide presence and taking advantage of educational opportunities. How and why we grow what we do and communicating that to landscape contractors will be beneficial to everyone.”

Be part of something bigger

Be part of something bigger — build a professional network for life. ILCA committee involvement is the best way to augment your membership. By participating on a committee, you’ll match your special interests and talents to an ILCA program or initiative. Visit https://ilca.net/professional/committee_involvement/

Mark your calendars.

Find an event for you and your staff: https://ilca.net/ilca-events/