“When I grow up I want to be a Certified Professional Organizer.” While that’s not what I said as a child, that’s one of the things I’ve become as an adult.

Who’d have guessed back in the 1960s, 70s, 80s, even 90s, there would be such a profession? When I founded Straighten Your Paths in early 2003, I must confess, I wondered if there could be a need large enough to make this service prosper. I quickly realized that the answer was yes; disorganization exists in as many as 60% of American households.

The National Association of Professional Organizers, of which I am a member, spearheaded an important step in the advancement of the organizing industry when they assisted in the development of a fair and comprehensive examination that is open to all organizers, not just NAPO members. This exam truly sets the industry standard and was established in 2007.

I am happy to announce that I have recently received the prestigious designation of Certified Professional Organizer® (CPO®) from the Board of Certification for Professional Organizers. This certification is a voluntary, industry-led effort, which benefits the public and members of the organizing profession. It recognizes those professionals who have met specific minimum qualifications and proven through examination and client interaction to possess the body of knowledge and experience required for certification. The program recognizes and raises industry standards, practices and ethics.

More than ever, I am looking forward to this continued path.

Patty Horton, CPO® and Founder
Straighten Your Paths LLC