Marcos Goodman

Member Services Director
mgoodman@oregonresource.org
(503) 585-3337

Why should I become part of ORA?

Legislative Representation

• Year-Round Advocacy: ORA retains a lobbyist who works year-round with our board, staff, members, and the Oregon legislature, focusing on securing essential resources and supportive policies for disability services.
• Monitoring and Influence: ORA closely tracks legislative activities and ensures that members' voices reach the Oregon legislature, Governor, and state agencies, guiding collective action on policy matters that impact IDD services.

Networking and Information Sharing

• Quarterly Membership Meetings: Held at rotating locations across the state, these meetings offer:
• Educational Sessions: Learn from industry experts on current topics relevant to IDD services.
• Peer Networking: Connect with other ORA members to share experiences, strategies, and solutions.
• State Agency Engagement: Engage with representatives from Oregon Developmental Disability Services (ODDS), Employment First, Vocational Rehabilitation (VR), and the Department of Human Services (DHS) for direct conversations on key issues.
• State Representation: ORA regularly brings in state representatives to these meetings, creating opportunities for both formal and informal discussions, allowing members to share insights and hear about agency updates.

Professional Development and Training

• Northwest Conference on Disability Services: ORA’s annual flagship event offers:
  • Presentations from National and Regional Experts: Gain insights from leading voices in disability services, covering best practices, innovative strategies, and industry trends.
  • Specialized Tracks: Tailored sessions focus on a variety of roles within the IDD field, supporting staff at all levels.
• Year-Round Training Calendar: ORA offers diverse training opportunities that include:
  • Topic-Specific Workshops: Sessions cover a broad range of topics, from compliance and policy updates to leadership development and technological advancements.
  • Webinars and Virtual Trainings: Convenient online options make it easy for members to participate in professional development from any location.
• Cadre Participation: Join specialized cadres, including Executive, Manager, and Human Resource Cadres, to develop leadership skills and build knowledge in focused areas of the IDD sector.

Member Support and Guidance

• Access to ORA’s Full-Time Team: Members have direct access to a team of dedicated, full-time ORA employees who provide personalized support and guidance on any questions, challenges, or needs that arise.
• Daily Support: ORA provides regular guidance and resources to help members offer choice and independence to people with disabilities in housing, employment, and social opportunities.
• Resource Access: Benefit from ORA’s extensive resource library, available to help address everyday challenges and provide best practice guidance.

Membership Directory

• Comprehensive Directory Access: Members gain access to ORA’s Membership Directory, an invaluable resource that includes contact details and organizational information for all ORA members. This directory enhances networking opportunities, collaboration, and partnership-building within the IDD community.

Stakeholder Group and Committee Representation

• Representation on Public Committees and Task Forces: ORA advocates for members’ interests across multiple public workgroups and committees.
• Routine Meetings with Key Agencies: Engage with officials from DHS, ODDS, VR, and the Department of Administrative Services (DAS) to ensure that your voice is represented and concerns are addressed.

Week in Review (WIR)

• Weekly E-Newsletter: Stay updated with a well-organized e-newsletter that highlights essential news from the state and legislative updates.
• Member Announcements: Submit news on programs, events, or achievements for inclusion, helping build awareness and engagement across ORA’s network.

Oregon Forward Program

• Program Advocacy: ORA works closely with the Oregon Department of Administrative Services, other agencies, and the Oregon Legislature to ensure that Oregon Forward provides valuable work opportunities for Oregonians with disabilities.
• Specialized Support: ORA’s Oregon Forward specialists assist members with representation at trade shows, lead distribution, and professional consultation.
• Sales Support: Oregon Forward staff can accompany member staff on sales calls, provide introductions to purchasing officials, and help with public networking.

Additional Member Benefits

• Discounted Event Access: Enjoy reduced fees or early registration for ORA-hosted events, including the NW Conference, making it more affordable to participate in professional development.
• Corporate Member Deals: Certain corporate members provide exclusive discounts or special deals to ORA members, adding value to your membership.
• Compliance Support and Policy Library: Access resources and guidance for navigating state and federal regulatory compliance, including a comprehensive library of adaptable policies and procedures.
• Diverse and Inclusive Community: ORA is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, providing members with resources and tools to create more inclusive and innovative services.