MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS
Annual Educational Conference
Each June AFDO holds a five-day educational conference. This conference attracts leaders from regulatory agencies, regulated industries and academia. Members are provided up-to-date, accurate information on current legislative, regulatory and technical issues. Current problems are discussed in formal sessions, round-table discussions, various committee meetings and informally at the many social events. Association resolutions, policies and drafts of model legislation are considered and voted on at these meetings. AFDO members receive a discounted rate for registration.
The Committees
The Association has many standing and adhoc committees that deal with the varied interests of the membership. Members are invited to participate fully in the research and deliberations by joining the committees of their choice. Each committee receives annual charges that address current and emerging issues. Formal reports of committee activities are provided to all members.
Model Codes and Legislation
Growing out of the work of committees are the model codes and ordinances that AFDO has developed over the years. Working on these codes can be a personal education in the legislative process at the same time that it helps move the nation towards regulatory uniformity.
Outreach
AFDO is comprised of six regional affiliates. Through its regional affiliates, a partnership process has been created which link all the affiliates together with each other and with the national organization. Regional association resolutions are forwarded to AFDO for consideration by its membership. In addition, AFDO appoints representatives to work with other major associations. This promotes cooperation and coordination on projects of general interest.
Publications
AFDO publishes technical papers, reports, information circulars and booklets that are available to members either gratis or at reduced member cost.
AFDO’s Sphere of Influence
Being an open organization with leadership elected by its members, AFDO speaks out on behalf of, and in full consultation with, its membership. Important resolutions are adopted at the annual conferences and given serious consideration by both industry and governmental agencies. AFDO Board members meet with the leadership of these regulatory bodies both formally and informally to exchange views.
Communication
AFDO members receive the weekly AFDO eNEWS, keeping them apprised of key events and information taking place in the realm of food protection and defense. Members also have access to contact information, workgroups and communication tools through the AFDO Website's Member Portal where they can communicate online in real time around the clock with others on important matters.
Online Resources
Tools such as online meetings, document management (an internet-based document file cabinet) are among the many that are made available to members at no additional cost.
