I first became aware of INETA – the International .NET Association - when I was running a .NET user group in the Detroit area. Every once in a while, they would offer us some free books, software, t-shirts, and other prizes to give away to our members.

Later, I was asked to become a Regional Mentor for INETA, which meant that I approved new user groups for membership (mostly just verifying that the group actually existed and held regular meetings) and that I provided advice for user group leaders and new groups in my region. For about a year, I hosted a monthly call with local user group leaders and I corresponded frequently with new leaders, giving them advice on running a group or find speakers. At one time, I covered Ohio, Michigan, West Virginia, and Pennsylvania, but I later delegated some of those states to others who wanted to be involved.

In 2012, I joined the INETA Board of Directors, where I served for about 2 years. I was impressed with the dedication of a team that volunteered so much time to help out the developer communities spread across the US and world. It was a great experience.

My point is that INETA has touched my life in significant ways. I was a beneficiary, then a proponent, then an active member of the leadership team. I learned a great deal; I made many friends and contacts; I and my user group benefited from their programs; and I contributed in a small way to the success of the organization. Their speaker program has helped me to travel to a number of user groups and helped me bring to my group speakers who might not be able to travel as far.

Last week, I learned that INETA is coming to an end. President Julie Yack announced on the organization's blog that, after 13 years, they would close down at the end of 2015. With no steady stream of revenue, the group could no longer afford to finance the programs they wanted to. I was saddened to hear this news but I'm happy that INETA was so successful for so long.

I'm grateful to all those who volunteered to make it so successful for so long - particularly those with whom I worked directly. And I'm grateful that INETA helped so many people who went on to volunteer and help others, which magnified their efforts.

And I'm glad I was a part of INETA. It's a badge I wear proudly.