Ever since I found IAP2, I have felt that I’ve found “my people”! All of the best practices, approaches and lessons learned in public engagement are found here. I am heading up the creation of the Emerging Orange County Chapter of IAP2 in Southern California, and I feel as if my work with our local communities in public participation and my role starting up the local chapter make me a fit for this role as well (as I am already doing it and spreading the value of IAP2 to other practitioners!). I have also taken the Foundations, When things go Sideways, Emotion and Outrage and Group Facilitation Courses through IAP2 and can communicate their value to others (to promote the profession and organization!).