Guest Blog by Sandra Castro, Community Manager, Landmark Limited Group of Companies, and Legislative Support Committee Member of the CAI Bay Area & Central Chapter
When I began my career in the community association industry in 2006, I quickly learned that being a successful Community Manager is about much more than budgets, maintenance, and meetings. It’s about being a trusted resource, an advocate, and a connector—both for your company and the communities you serve.
One of the most powerful tools I’ve found to elevate my role and make a lasting impact is through active involvement with CAI-CLAC (California Legislative Action Committee) and the Buck A Door (or More!) Campaign.
Why CAI-CLAC Matters
CAI-CLAC represents the interests of more than 13 million homeowners living in over 55,000 community associations across California. We educate legislators about the realities of common interest development living and governance, while monitoring, supporting, or opposing legislation that directly impacts HOAs.
Simply put: CAI-CLAC safeguards and improves the community association lifestyle—and protects property values. As managers, this advocacy work strengthens the very communities we manage.
I attended my first Day at the Capitol early in my career, and it was an eye-opener. Walking the halls of the Capitol with fellow managers, board members, and business partners showed me that our collective voices really do make a difference. From that day forward, I made it my mission to not only stay engaged with CAI-CLAC, but also to encourage my boards and colleagues to support the cause.
Buck A Door (or More!): Giving Communities a Voice
One of the easiest yet most impactful ways to support CAI-CLAC is through the Buck A Door (or More!) Campaign.
This campaign empowers community association residents to have a voice at the State Capitol by contributing just $1 per household, per year. It’s a small ask with a powerful return—helping ensure that our communities are represented when new laws are being written or debated.
Early on, I’ll admit, asking boards for donations was intimidating. Many directors had never heard of CAI or CAI-CLAC, and I felt humbled requesting contributions. But I learned that education and visibility make all the difference. I started small, but my efforts quickly made a significant impact.
- I began adding Buck A Door as a formal agenda item so boards could review it ahead of meetings.
- I tied donation requests to real examples of upcoming laws or issues impacting our industry.
- I even created a “CAI Corner” in my office, where I displayed our annual donation goal. This sparked conversations—and even inspired homeowners to contribute when they saw the chart while paying their assessments.
This year alone, I’ve proudly raised $1,500 across my portfolio—just $1 per door
The Role of the Community Manager as Advocate
As Community Managers, we’re not just administrators—we are educators, advocates, and leaders. Supporting CAI-CLAC and Buck A Door is one way to:
- Elevate your role within your company by being seen as a resource who understands the broader legislative landscape.
- Advocate for your communities by ensuring their voices are heard in Sacramento.
- Stay informed and educated on laws that directly affect the way we manage associations every day.
I encourage every Community Manager to make Buck A Door part of your annual routine. Use the campaign packet, add it to your board reports, and share the impact CAI-CLAC has on protecting the industry we all depend on.
Every Dollar Counts
At the end of the day, advocacy is about partnership and persistence. Whether it’s $1 per door or more, every contribution fuels the effort to protect and strengthen our communities.
For me, supporting CAI-CLAC isn’t just about donations—it’s about ensuring the longevity and success of the industry I’ve dedicated my career to. And as Community Managers, we all have the opportunity to play a role in shaping that future.
Remember: Every dollar counts. Every voice matters. And together, we can make a difference. Please consider donating here.