Letter from the President, FLACARS

I would like to first introduce myself to those of you whom I have not had the chance to meet. My name is William Benjamin LaDrew. My friends call me ‘Ben’. At the FLACARS convention held February 22-24, 2007, I was elected to lead our association. I reiterate “OUR” association.

The acronym “FLACARS” stands for: Florida Alliance of Certified Asset Recovery Specialists”, however our membership is compiled of much more then just Florida Recovery agents and agencies. We currently have members in over 25 States. I am very pleased that we now have Regional Directors in strategic points of the State of Florida, Tennessee, North Carolina, South Carolina, Michigan, Ohio and California.

I guarantee that with a small bit of effort from our current members, that we can expand to other states.

FLACARS is set up to help professionals in other States to join together and pool their resources as an independent yet consolidated group within FLACARS. Once organized these groups may form their own separate association or continue to grow as a part of FLACARS.

What does this mean? How can this help? Let me explain what I believe.

The last on that list is what makes me pleased to be associated with FLACARS at this time. Only together can we make a difference. Together, we have a louder, bolder and more powerful voice. Together we can and will be heard. Our members also need to show in solidarity at the PIRSAC meetings. In other words, we need to have a presence that will have the PIRSAC board take notice. No longer can we be the quiet minority. From all points within in the State of Florida, all the way to Tallahassee and beyond. We will be heard.

I have spoken with W.H. “Buddy” Bevis, the director of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Division of Licensing. I have assured him of FLACARS proactive rather then reactive stance to the issues that will affect our industry in the future. I have given him equal assurance of our presence that will be seen, felt and heard at all of the upcoming PIRSAC meetings.

For the first time in the history of any association in the State of Florida, FLACARS is able to offer a benefit available exclusively to FLACARS members besides membership. An occupational hazard insurance policy with benefits comparable to workman’s compensation insurance. An affordable alternative that is accepted by a growing number of major lending institutions. Membership truly has privileges now.

We are a community compiled of individuals. Individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences. Although they may be different in some ways, I am sure that they parallel in others. We are a family. A melting pot or cornucopia of ideas, history and knowledge that could be a great resource to each and every one of us. Our vendors are also our family. I urge all of you to support the vendors of FLACARS. You can find a list of them on the vendor page. They support our association and loyalty is important to all of us.

I hope and pray that I do not disappoint any of our members. I will attempt to instill integrity and resolve to the position that you have all elected me to hold. I am committed to your success as a business owner and as a member of FLACARS. I am asking for your support, idea sharing, participation and commitment to improving not only your business or FLACARS, but the entire industry, One day at a time, together we can achieve great things.