OSSN is an international networking trade association that was started in 1990 by Gary Fee. Membership in this organization provides the resources to further the education, training and professionalism of the home-based travel agent. The association's membership has grown, along with the fast growing trend of home-based agents, to over 5,000 members nationwide.

My involvement with OSSN since 1992 has helped my own travel career from the start. The organization provided me with the guidance needed to be a better-informed professional in the travel industry. In addition, OSSN gave me assistance in understanding what was needed to comply with the legalities and regulations associated with being in the travel business.

It was through the networking opportunities during the various local chapter meetings that I was able learn and share with other members the pros and cons of running a successful home-based business. In 1993 I was appointed as the San Jose Chapter Director for OSSN. The San Jose / Bay Area chapter went on to become the largest chapter in the organization with over 250 members and still remains the flagship chapter. I have received numerous awards from OSSN for my efforts in furthering the education and professionalism of other home-based agents. At our regularly held meetings I have introduced many of the top industry speakers and suppliers to our members.

In 1995 I was named as the Western Regional Director for OSSN. I am responsible for the development of all chapters west from Colorado to Hawaii and I still maintain the San Jose / Bay Area Chapter as well.

I was also asked, on behalf of OSSN, to testify at the California State Capitol, to the State Legislative committee with regards to how the California Seller of Travel Law / Restitution Fund proposed reassessment would have adversely effected the small agency owners and independent contractors. The amendment to reassess was not passed and the fund amount required by law was lowered to the existing amount already collected.

As an international trade organization, OSSN has continually been a major voice in the travel industry as the advocate of the professional home-based agent. In addition, the member's needs are supported with education, training and networking opportunities.

One of the greatest tributes I have received came from an OSSN member and his wife who joined my chapter back as it was just forming. They had told me that I was their mentor and that I had helped them with their business tremendously. Then not too long ago they mentioned that their travel business had grown to the point that he was able to quit his high profile accounting job in Silicon Valley and run their home-based travel business full time.

I am very proud of my association and accomplishments with OSSN. I have learned so much from the members and the organization. The positive feedback I have received from members for my efforts have been of great personal reward.

I highly recommend the membership for anyone who is interested in receiving the professional resources necessary to enhance your travel career as a home-based agent.

Please contact me for further information about the benefits OSSN membership or about becoming an OSSN Chapter Director in your area.