The Texas Association of Addiction Professionals firmly upholds values that support of our unique members and the clients they serve. TAAP will establish and sustain policies that promote understanding of the intersection of social, political, economic, and environmental practices and race, ethnicity, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, disability, and religion. All members are encouraged to strive for competence in understanding how these factors affect them professionally.
It is our goal to promote knowledge, awareness, and competence, not only within our organization, but throughout the state of Texas. TAAP will establish initiatives that increase the sensitivity and competence, as well as the professionalism, of our leaders and members, and build as well as sustain relationships with other professional organizations.
What is Professional Impact?
Professional Impact is anything ( race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, ethnicity, nationality, socioeconomic status, language, (dis)ability, age, religious commitment, or political perspective) that may impact your ability to work in a professional and conducive environment. The Professional Impact Committee promotes justice, impartiality and fairness within the procedures, processes, and distribution of resources by institutions or systems. We want every TAAP member to feel and/or know they are welcome. Inclusion outcomes are met when you, your institution, and your program are truly inviting to all, and individuals are able to participate fully in the decision-making processes and development opportunities within an organization or group. All Addiction Professionals Must Rise to Meet This Challenge As a professional association, we seek to make meaningful connections regardless of how someone may differ from us?
Your Labor is Not in Vain
Labor Day is a holiday honoring American workers and the labor movement, recognizing their role in
building the nation’s prosperity and quality of life. Emerging during the late 19th century amid long
work hours, unsafe conditions, and low wages, it reflected the growing influence of trade unions and
their calls for reform. The first celebration, organized by the Central Labor Union in New York City on
September 5, 1882, featured a parade and picnic. Following widespread adoption by states,
President Grover Cleveland signed legislation in 1894 making it a federal holiday.
TAAP Celebrates the Addiction and Recovery professional workforce for all the tireless, fearless and
sometime thankless work that you do. You make a difference in the lives of those struggling with
addictions, their families, and your communities. Every day that you show up. Every day that you stay
late. Every day that you try a different approach with someone who is about to give up on their
recovery or life. You make a difference!
September is also Recovery Month, and the Texas Association of Addiction Professionals (TAAP)
State Conference will take place September 9–11, 2026. So, as you celebrate recovery month and
this Labor Day be reminded that your labor is not in vain.
Submitted by: Dr. Kimberly Scales
Professional Impact Committee (PIC) Chair