ILOTA Communique 2020 Communique Issue 1 | Page 18

THE COMMUNIQUÉ A B O U T I L O TA The Illinois Occupational Therapy Association (ILOTA) is the official representative of the occupa- tional therapy profession in the state of Illinois. ILOTA acknowledges and promotes professional ex- cellence through a proactive, organized collaboration with occupational therapy personnel, the health care community, governmental agencies and consumers. Vision ILOTA is a multifaceted association committed to enhancing health and well-being through the utiliza- tion of best occupational therapy practices in Illinois. Mission ILOTA is recognized as the premier occupational therapy resource in Illinois. We strive to advance the best practice of occupational therapy through serv- ing, supporting and promoting the profession. Core Values Be Dynamic Why? We are an ever evolving association that serves as a catalyst, promoting health and well- being by inspiring compassionate, enthusiastic occupational therapy practitioners. Through for- ward thinking we envision the need for change and innovation. How do we bring this to life? We facilitate the op- portunities for participation through utilization of evolving technologies and strategies. We antici- pate and meet the needs of the stakeholders through surveillance of local, state and national key initiatives. We recognize needs and provide resources and opportunities to facilitate profes- sional growth and development that reflects evolving best practice. Be Inclusive Why? We represent practitioners within current and emerging practice areas across Illinois to ensure every voice is heard. We embrace diversity and acknowledge the need to support growth and de- velopment of all practitioners within the state. of practitioners from all corners of the state. We anticipate the needs of stakeholders and respond by developing and implementing relevant advo- cacy strategies. Be Dedicated Why? We are dedicated to the advancement of oc- cupational therapy and our stakeholders. We need self-motivated people who are passionate about the occupational therapy profession. How do we bring this to life? Our staff, volunteers and members demonstrate perseverance and follow-through to enable the achievement of our multiple goals and objectives. We are organized and responsive in fully communicating responsi- bilities and expectations. Have Integrity Why? We value ethical practice by our members which in turn drives the organizations adherence to ethical business practice. In light of our advo- cacy role, it is critical that our profession is viewed as trustworthy through modeling of our core values. How do we bring this to life? We operate the busi- ness of the association with transparency. We invite members to actively engaged in our activi- ties and we respond to their feedback. Strategic Focus Areas Focus Area 1: Expand Professional Development Opportunities Focus Area 2: Build and sustain membership Focus Area 3: Increase engagement in advocacy Focus Area 4: Apply fiscally responsible investment in ILOTA for stability and growth Focus Area 5: Align with AOTA to support the vision of the profession How do we bring this to life? We utilize a variety of methods and strategies to facilitate engagement Page 18