The Service to NAPO Award is bestowed to a NAPO volunteer, or group of volunteers, whose dedication and commitment to NAPO and their area of responsibility goes above and beyond. This award recipient is selected by the current NAPO President.

In 2020, NAPO President, Susie Hayman, gave Sarah Karakaian of Nesters.com the Service to NAPO Award. Susie said, “This NAPO member of seven years has taken her position as a volunteer to the next level. She was chosen for a starring role that was new to our association and she quickly became a voice for NAPO. Her charisma, enthusiasm, and ability to engage the audience has increased awareness of NAPO and put our profession in the spotlight. The 2020 Service to NAPO Award goes to Sarah Karakaian our Stand Out Podcast Host.”

We asked Sarah a few questions to find out more about her road to achieving this accomplishment:

Q. What made you want to get involved in the startup of the NAPO “Stand Out” Podcast?

SK: I have a background in theater and TV and I thought that hosting a podcast would be a good use of my talents. I wanted to be part of the group that launched the NAPO podcast—a no-brainer for keeping NAPO at the forefront of the organizing and productivity industry. I wanted to include elements in the podcast that would make newer members feel welcome, while also providing information that is important when you are starting an organizing career. A new member can listen to the podcast ahead of time so that first meeting with a client isn’t so overwhelming.

Q. Tell us about your NAPO involvement.

SK: I started as the Social Media Coordinator for the NAPO New York Chapter, and later became involved with the NAPO Conference Committee. This year, I have the honor of being the host of the NAPO2021 Annual Conference. This year’s conference is virtual, so it’s never been easier or more affordable to attend!

Q. Any advice you would give to members looking to volunteer?

SK: Find something that you are already good at and serve in that way. I was doing a lot with social media, so I chose to help the New York chapter with their social media. Then the podcast opportunity came about and I knew I had the basic skills to help NAPO launch this new initiative! Helping the association is a great confidence booster for newer organizers, too! You can focus on something you already know or jump in and learn something new that you’ve always wanted to try.

Q. What volunteer advice would you give to newer NAPO members?

SK: It is so good for your soul and pocketbook to volunteer. You get to network with people who are passionate about what you are passionate about and who believe what you believe: to grow and feel fulfilled. That can lead to job opportunities from others, both locally and nationally. I received a great referral for someone moving from one state to another because they knew me from my volunteer work. Put your face out there as someone who cares about the association.

Q. How has volunteering helped to build and grow your business?

SK: I was new to podcasts when I helped NAPO launch Stand Out. I learned so much about podcasts – the technology, production, and prepping for guests. I was able to use that knowledge to launch my own podcast, a nerdy podcast about the short-term rental business called “Thanks For Visiting.” Additionally, I met so many members of NAPO that I wouldn’t have otherwise had the pleasure of working with and getting to know! Now, because of this volunteer opportunity, I am connected with so many movers and shakers in our industry and beyond!

Do you feel inspired to become a NAPO volunteer? There are many volunteer opportunities in local NAPO Chapters and at the national level. Gain valuable insight and business experience along with the opportunity to meet inspiring leaders in our profession, like Sarah. 

About the Author: Angela Loveless is a member of NAPO’s Awards and Recognition Committee. She is the owner of Actually Organized by Angela in the Chicago area and has been a NAPO Member since 2009.