Community associations in California, Oregon, Connecticut and Virginia were recently named 2000 National Community Association of the Year award winners in four size categories by the Community Associations Institute (CAI). The 11th annual awards program honored condominium, cooperative and homeowner associations that excel in all aspects of operations, management and community involvement.

"We are proud to showcase these exemplary communities that embody progressive, responsive and effective leadership," said Barbara Byrd Keenan, CAE, president of CAI. "Congratulations to the volunteer leaders and managers of these winning associations for fostering a strong sense of community, competently managing finances and ensuring effective governance."

The winners in each category are: Highland Park Condominium, Portland, Oregon, Small (1-149 homes); Lakeridge Community Association, Torrington, Conn., Medium (150-499 homes); Wellesley Homeowner Association, Inc., Richmond, Va., Large (500-999 homes); and Canyon Lakes Property Owners Association, Canyon Lake, Calif., Very Large (1000+ homes).

A runner-up was also selected in each size category: Chicago Homes of Dearborn Park, Chicago, Ill., Small; Indian Hills Club Homeowners Association, Nashville, Tenn., Medium; Country Club of Louisiana Property Owners Association, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Large; and Parkfairfax, Alexandria, Va., Very Large.

Communities were judged on organized and productive business operations; thorough and effective communications systems and techniques; fair and effective rules notification and enforcement policies and procedures; and special programs designed to enhance residents' enjoyment of their homes. Winners will be honored at CAI's 49th National Conference in Nashville, Tenn., on Oct. 26-28, and will receive a plaque and large banner to display in their communities.

The Community Associations Institute is a nonprofit association created in 1973 to educate and represent the nation's 205,000 community associations—condominium associations, homeowner associations and cooperatives. CAI members include homeowners, associations and related professionals and service providers.

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[Editor's note: For more information or to interview a National Community Association of the Year Award winner, please contact Jay S. Polachek, director of media and public relations, at (703) 797-6250.]