Chapters & Collectives
What’s the Difference?
Chapters:
Chapters are fully established, location-based subdivisions of the organization that serve as the primary hubs for member engagement, programming, and leadership development. They operate with a defined structure, consistent programming cadence, and established leadership roles, and are expected to meet standard organizational criteria for size, activity, and impact.
Collectives:
Collectives are smaller-scale, location-based extensions of the organization designed to support member engagement in regions with lower member density. They serve the same core purpose as chapters– community-building, programming, and professional development–but operate with greater flexibility and reduced operational requirements. Collectives may evolve into full chapters as membership and capacity grow.
Both expand NABPT’s impact locally.
The Onboarding Process
- Minimum of 3 active NABPT members
- At least 1 licensed PT or PTA
- Two-year Executive Board commitment
- Required roles: President, Vice President, Treasurer
Complete the Chapter Development Intake Form to begin.
- Screening call with NABPT
- Review of responsibilities and expectations
- PT/PTA licensure verification (if applicable)
- Alignment with NABPT mission and values
Leaders will:
- Complete Growth Zone leadership training
- Participate in the “Buddy System” mentorship onboarding
- Finalize Executive Leadership
Chapters must also complete legal setup:
- Affiliation Agreement
- Secretary of State registration
- EIN application
- Email, social media, and bank account setup
Chapters: ~60 days
(Dependent on state processing, leadership training, and recruitment of 20 members.)
Collectives: ~30 days.
If you relocate:
- Participate in your new chapter’s events
- Submit a transfer request via the community platform
- Officially switch during your next membership renewal
Interested in starting a new Chapter or Collective?
Contact our Chapter Development Committee and check out the next steps.
Interested in starting a new Chapter or Collective?
Contact our Chapter Development Committee and check out the next steps.
Established NABPT Chapters & Collectives
- Alabama
- AUC (Georgia)
- Florida
- Georgia
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Michigan
- Missouri
- New Jersey
- New York
- North Carolina
- Pennsylvania
- Southern California
- Tennessee
- Virginia
Frequently Asked Questions
- Have a minimum of three (3) people interested in starting a chapter (and are members of the NABPT) who are committed to being the E-board for at least one term length (2 years)
- At least one (1) start-up member must be a PT or PTA
- Required positions: President, Vice President, Treasurer
Ready to Get Involved?
Whether you are preparing for PT school, currently in training, practicing, or leading an organization — NABPT provides a national platform to grow, connect, and contribute to the advancement of Black physical therapy.