How it all began

The International Oriental Bodywork Association evolved out of the International Massage Association which originated in 1994 in Washington DC.

Will Green, who was teaching massage at the time, wanted to help his students not only increase their business but also reduce their costs, particularly liability insurance. “I had a friend, a single mom, lose everything over a minor trip-and-fall incident. That memory was still fresh in my mind, and I wanted to be sure all my students were adequately protected." Thus was born the IMA.

Expecting a modest 1,000 members over the next five years, the association was thrilled to reach its goal that very first year. It soon added divisions for the various healing modalities related to massage – like yoga, reiki, reflexology, and aromatherapy. Today over 70,000 people have joined the IMA Group, Inc.

Will Green is first and foremost an entrepreneur with heart. He believes entrepreneurship is fundamental to the American Dream and encourages all who like to work hard and follow their passion to start their own business. “As in my case, miracles do happen. You can have what you dream of."

Recently Will has structured fifteen other associations for entrepreneurs; many of them as a way of assisting segments of our society who are often overlooked and would do well to bind together to encourage each other, to expand their enterprises, and to lower their costs.

As the idea spread, other groups have come along and asked Will to be part of his association trade umbrella. As Will says. “There’s something for everyone. You can make of it what you wish. They’re there for you to get free insurances with memberships, radically reduced health insurance, a free website, and a generous referral bonus. Those are great benefits."

With Will’s enthusiasm, don’t be surprised if the list of associations just keeps on growing.