Associations have become an essential asset in every profession. Professional Association in specific, form, unite and keep informed professionals from the same industry in different aspects. I think that, once you become a professional it is very important to become a part of something bigger than only yourself; joining an association is a great way to start! You will interact, learn from and keep connected to people with the same working interest as you. And most important, this will definitely improve your personal brand strategy and marketing strategy for your personal company.
Associations help keep your education up to date and modernized. As technology moves along so quickly, it is important to look for ways to keep learning new things and professionals associations are supposed to do so. Associations have people in charge, selected by the members themselves, who are responsible for recruiting, educating and informing others.

ACSPPRI is a puerto rican association for professionals in social activities coordination. It is a private organization, voluntary and non-profit and registered with the State Department. It helps promotes the best interests of members and encourages that they respond to the demands of our society in all kinds of social activities. Develop the professional growth of its partners to achieve excellence in the quality of services provided and to promote greater recognition of this profession.
Associations like ACSPPRI are a good way for recent graduates who want to work as an event producer to start. As said before, it is a good way to begging branding and gaining experience.
References:
http://asocoor.com/BIENVENIDOS.html
http://healthcareers.about.com/od/glossary/g/professional_gl.htm