ICA announces reorganization as a new association management company takes over day today operations. Most staff now become employees of that company rather than ICA. An interesting and necessary strategic move.

What appeals to me about this transition is that they will have access to many more seasoned professionals who can help make sure that this organization is functioning well as a non-profit. I would like to see, for example, annual meetings for their members and donors so that we can all review the finances and provide input into how that money is spent.

It was very disappointing to learn, as we posted several months ago, that their dedication to IC research appeared to be waning.. with less money being provided to IC research studies. Just 4.9% of their budget was given to research according to a recent IRS Form 990. Paltry when compared to the high staff salaries that were being given.

I would like to see this organization become a full service "member driven" organization.. where patients are fully involved in the priorities and goal planning of this essential non-profit.

I would also like to see "members" given back their rights to participate in the management of the organization, including in voting on the election of officers. These rights were taken a way in a secret Board vote several years ago when the term "member" was reclassified as a "marketing term" .. and, from that point, members were no longer able to participate in the oversight of the organization. That was an appalling decision IMHO that should and could be reversed today.

http://www.ichelp.org/page.aspx?pid=1116

Jill O.