Protecting the Interests and Image of Independent Operators

Why is the Independents Section so Important to AFSA?
Independents are defined as “independently owned and operated consumer finance companies.” In 1983, AFSA created the Independents Section to provide a forum for members to exchange information and develop programs and services specifically designed to meet the needs of association independents.

The independents' grass roots support in the states has been vital in providing access to key congressional leaders to deal with industry issues and threats. The AFSA State Government Affairs Department, working with your state association, has developed resources to help coordinate efforts wherever potentially dangerous statute/ordinance or legal issues may arise. 

Who Leads the Independents Section? 
An advisory board of executives from Independent member companies provide leadership to the Independents Section and guide AFSA on initiatives to benefit this industry segment.  

Make Strategic Contacts and Enhance Your Business Opportunities
AFSA's Independents Conference and Exposition is the main event for independent finance company owners and suppliers to this segment of the industry. The program is enhanced by an extensive exposition of products and services. Spouses, companions and families are encouraged to attend. As a Section member, your company receives registration fee discounts for you and your employees. www.independentsconference.com  
 
Track Consumer Legislation in Your Own State and Nationwide
AFSA Track® at KSE FOCUS is AFSA’s comprehensive Web-based monitoring system that provides legislative and regulatory tracking in all 50 states and the federal government, accessible every day of the year from anywhere in the world. If your company is a member, then company individuals have access to AFSA Track through their AFSA user name and password. If you don’t have a password, contact Ale Siles at asiles@afsamail.org.

Compare Your Company's Performance and Evaluate Your Business Practices
Participate in the annual AFSA Independents Financial Survey provided by RSM McGladrey, Inc.
For information, contact AFSA Associate Advisory Board member Morris Marshburn at morris.marshburn@rsmi.com
Order form for 2009 survey results

Provide Professional Development for Your Most Valued Managers and Supervisors
AFSA's Education Foundation sponsors two university-based programs at Marquette University in Milwaukee and at the University of North Carolina for branch managers and supervisors of the consumer finance industry.
Learn more about AFSAEF's management development programs

AFSA Has Pioneered Efforts to Enhance the Image of the Industry and Independent Operators
Through its Communications Department and Education Foundation, AFSA has helped to enhance the image of the consumer finance industry and suggests that problems in the community are best solved with education programs rather than legislation. To learn more about the AFSA Education Foundation go to www.afsaef.org  

Awards Program
The Outstanding Independent Award is presented, at the Independents Conference, to an Independent Section member who has contributed to the growth of the financial services industry and has helped raise the image of the independent operator. Your local newspaper is notified.

The Outstanding Employee Award is presented at the annual Independents Conference for outstanding service as proven in performance, achievement and customer relations under the AFSA member company's standards for finance management. Individuals are selected by member companies and provided complimentary registrations to the conference. Contact Jenny Bengtson at jbengtson@afsamail.org.

Your Office and Staff in Washington
With a staff of 20 professionals and an annual budget of $9 million, AFSA has a proud 90-plus-year history of serving the consumer financial services industry. Through the section, AFSA is dedicated to providing increased services to independent segment of its membership.

How Much Are Section Dues and How Do We Join?
Section dues are only $125 per company annually for Active members (independent finance companies) and $175 for association members (industry suppliers). To join, complete this application. Companies must be an Active or Associate member of AFSA to be eligible to join the Section.

For information about joining AFSA or the Independents Section call Sheilah Harrison, Vice President, Membership Services at (202) 466-8602 or email sharrison@afsamail.org