POA general manager wins two prestigious CACM Awards

BY Aprile McKinnon

Eric Kazakoff, the general manager of the Canyon Lake POA, received two Vision Awards for “extraordinary leadership and innovative strategies” at the annual California Association of Community Managers (CACM) Southern California Law Seminar & Expo in Anaheim last week.

The prestigious awards program honors the top professionals in the community management industry who have made a positive impact in their communities, on their colleagues and with their association homeowners. Eric received the Leadership Award and the Innovator Award, two of only five awards given at the ceremony. CACM consists of approximately 3,000 community managers throughout California. The organization provides education and resources to its members. Eric has been a member of the professional organization for six years and is currently serving his third year on the CACM Board of Directors.

Five other Canyon Lake POA staff members joined Eric in attending the conference and expo.

“The staff was able to network and gain a wealth of knowledge from the other community managers in the industry,” Tiffany Cribbs, the Canyon Lake POA communications manager, said. “The POA is committed to employee enrichment, providing invaluable training and insights that will help staff members better serve its community and membership.”

Also attending the conference with Eric were staff members Steve Schneider, Lynn Jensen, Harmony McNaughton, Amanda Moore and Tiffany.

Eric Kazaloff, General Manager of Canyon Lake POA, was awarded two Vision Awards for Leadership and Innovation at the California Association of Community Managers Southern California Law seminar.

“I am honored to receive these awards from CACM,” Eric said. “I believe that strong leadership and innovative strategies are critical to the success of any community, and I am proud to be a part of the Canyon Lake community. I want to thank the CACM for this recognition, and I look forward to continuing to work with our residents to make Canyon Lake an even better place to live.”

Members of the Canyon Lake POA Board of Directors congratulated Eric on the achievements.

“Eric has been a tremendous asset to our community, and we are thrilled to see him recognized for his exceptional leadership and innovative strategies,” President Renee Griffiths said. “His dedication to the Canyon Lake community is unparalleled, and we are fortunate to have him as our general manager.”

The Canyon Lake POA has seen significant improvements in communication engagement and satisfaction under Eric’s leadership, Tiffany said.

He has also been the force behind the development of several community projects, including the new family-friendly Vacation Park that features a pump track, multiple improvements at the community’s revenue-producing campground, and, currently, a full-scale renovation of the Canyon Lake Lodge.

CACM said the Leadership Award was given to Eric because of the leadership role he has played in managing the Canyon Lake POA. The Leadership Award recognizes managers who have stimulated others’ professional goals by mentoring, encouraging and inspiring them to attain the goals.

The Innovator Award was given for his innovative strategies in community management, CACM said. He was recognized for his leadership to kick start innovation and solve critical issues and improve association conditions. The award is in recognition of his innovative approach to board management, financial management, community building and out-of-the-box solutions.