The American Counseling Association of New York (ACA-NY) is a not-for-profit grassroots organization that represents professional counselors and counseling students, of all specialty areas, who live or work in New York State. As a chapter of the American Counseling Association, we extend the efforts of growing and enhancing the counseling profession at the state level. ACA-NY board members are elected by members for one and two year terms. Typically, future board members express interest through member surveys, at events, and word of mouth from current board members. We always encourage and appreciate member input during nominations and elections. Eligible members are encouraged to take on leadership and leadership-elect positions and are supported in their leadership development. As a chapter of the American Counseling Association, ACA-NY's mission echos that of the American Counseling Association "to enhance the quality of life in society by promoting the development of professional counselors, advancing the counseling profession, and using the profession and practice of counseling to promote respect for human dignity and diversity." We support our mission through the following activities: * Providing free regional networking events for our members at least four times per year * Providing free Continuing Education (CE) opportunities for our members at least four times per year * Organizing grassroots legislative movements advocating for the counseling profession * Organizing events and developing public service announcements for increasing public awareness of the counseling profession