Five years after the pandemic, associations continue to adjust to a world shaped by technology, hybrid work, and new expectations of connection. What has not changed is people’s desire to feel part of something meaningful. The way they find that connection, however, looks different. Some prefer the convenience of online engagement, while others, surrounded by virtual meetings and screens, are drawn to in-person interaction.

A mentor once told me, “The only way to grow thyself is to know thyself.” The same can be said for associations. Understanding what connection means to your members will guide how you provide value and relevance. When that understanding is clear, it becomes easier to balance both digital and personal approaches to engagement.

The pace of change has also increased. Five years ago, everyone was forced to adapt overnight. Since then, expectations for speed and accessibility have only grown. Add in AI and an ever-expanding list of digital tools, and it can feel like everything should happen instantly. Technology is only effective when it serves a clear purpose. Knowing why you are using a tool will determine whether it truly supports your mission.

Volunteerism has shifted. Many companies now use volunteer time off as a team activity, which can make it harder for individuals to give time on their own. Associations and nonprofits can respond by focusing on skill-based opportunities, shorter commitments, and platforms that make it easier for volunteers to contribute when and how they can.

Hybrid and virtual events, introduced out of necessity during the pandemic, still hold value when used with intention. They can expand reach and accessibility without replacing the power of in-person experiences—and even serve as an effective “on-ramp” to engagement. The key is understanding who you want to reach and how each format supports that connection.

Before the pandemic, success often felt implied: Host strong events, serve members well, repeat. Today, innovation requires that success be defined clearly and revisited often. Limited capacity means associations cannot try everything at once. A shared vision, captured in a simple and visible set of success measures, helps staff and volunteers make aligned decisions about what to pursue and what to pause. One way to start is by asking three questions: What impact matters most? What are we uniquely positioned to deliver? What can we stop doing to make space for progress?

The last five years have shown that flexibility, purpose, and genuine connection remain at the heart of every thriving organization. By staying curious, using technology thoughtfully, and keeping people at the center of every decision, associations and nonprofits can continue to evolve and make a lasting impact in the years ahead.