Professional associations offer valuable resources for those working in international development, humanitarian assistance, and public service. Whether you’re looking for advocacy, networking, professional development, or community support, these organizations provide a range of opportunities to stay informed, connected, and engaged throughout your career.

Unions

• American Foreign Service Association (AFSA): The professional association and labor union for active and retired members of the U.S. Foreign Service. AFSA advocates for members’ interests, provides resources on career development, and publishes the Foreign Service Journal.
• American Federal of Government Employees (AFGE): Union representing over 800,000 workers in nearly every agency of the federal and D.C. governments, spread across over 900 local unions. 
• CS employees can join AFGE town halls on Thursdays from 6-8pm for updates and Q&A.  Registering for AFGE USAID townhalls requires an AFGE member ID.

Associations

• USAID Alumni Association: Fosters collegial networks of former USAID employees while promoting exchange of knowledge among alumni who wish to use their public service experience to advance global development. Currently $1/year to join for new members.
• USPSC Association: Advocates for and provides support to U.S. Personal Services Contractors (USPSCs) that work in humanitarian assistance and sustainable development worldwide on behalf of USAID.
• International Development Experts Association (IDEA):  Wide-ranging (and pricey!) professional development opportunities, including networking opportunities, courses, mentoring/coaching and international field exposure trips. 
• Partnership for Public Service: Equips federal leaders to serve the public good and serves as a conduit between the public, private, and social sectors.
• Society for International Development (SID): A member-based network of international development professionals offering events, career resources, and opportunities to connect across sectors. They host regular panels, workshops, and an annual conference focused on global development trends and career growth.