While the debate continues, let's tackle another problem that deals with certification. Accepting and supporting the concept of certification, the process involves money. I support the agency paying the certification fees for several reasons.
Professional associations charge membership fees.
These figures indicate that our agencies recognize the importance, as well as the benefits, of membership in the state professional association. The reasons for this financial support is primarily due to the benefits received from their membership. One of those benefits include enhancing professional image and upward mobility in the leisure service field. Since these agencies already buy into the concept of professional growth through IPRA membership by paying the fees, then buying into the certification concept is the same. While we acknowledge the need to recruit college students into the profession, agencies need to recognize the burden of certification costs to new and entry-level professionals.