RAA history

In 1994 the American Reflexology Certification Board (ARCB), recognizing that most reflexologists felt there was a need to pursue the dream of a national association, hosted a conference in Denver, Co on May 21st-22nd to explore such a possibility. Exploring A Dream was the conference theme that saw reflexologists from across the United States gather for the first time.  

While ARCB sponsored the conference, the ultimate outcome was in the hands of the participants. From this conference emerged a steering committee aimed at working towards the goal of establishing a national association. The 32 member Steering committee was headed by officers, Robb Drury of CA, Janet Stetser of ME, and Janis Woehler of MO. The group worked for a year to bring the foundations for the association to sufficient development to be presented for a vote at the conference held in St. Louis, MO titled Achieving The Dream.

In St. Louis a set of by-laws was adopted and an eleven member Board of Directors elected on April 30, 1995, officially founding the Reflexology Association of America (RAA). As stated in the by-laws those present pledged:

   "We, reflexologists across the United States, determined to work together in unity while embracing our diversity, do resolve to combine our efforts for the professional development of the field of Reflexology...."

2002 Conference Highlights

2002-03 Regional Leadership Weekends

(visit EVENTS area for details)

The 2 day meetings were free, inspired by the needs of RAA members, and sponsored by RAA. They were held throughout the US. IL, CA, MD, RI

"In the workshops it has been a pleasure to see the strengths and talents the field has within it. Also the openness of leaders to share, the willingness to learn and teach one another, and their passion," said Bill Flocco, who heads the training portions of the meetings.

Christine Issel brought participants up-to-date on legislation across the country.The workshops are packed with discussion, small group work, networking, and brainstorming. All activity is focused around the concept of strengthening state reflexology associations.

As Laura Aho, RAA Past President, says,"This profession can be unified and we can still maintain our individuality as we all practice our craft because we are smart enough, strong enough and open enough to insure that it ha

Who attended:

The RAA Board, all State Association elected Board Members and committee members, other interested leaders, or soon to be leaders and leaders who attended previous meetings.

What was covered?

Building a strong, thriving state association:

• How to Build Membership
• How to get people to participate on committees, boards & special projects
• How to produce newsletters that members can’t wait to see and read
• How to promote, organize and conduct highly successful state conferences
• How to increase public awareness easily through fun activities
• How to address ever changing legislative issues

May 2003

Following the guidelines as stated in the 1995 RAA by-laws, a definition of reflexology was defined. ( see Articles area: Defining Reflexology )