Summer is upon us and many think that this is the time that we slow down and take a bit of a break from Kiwanis. I would argue that now is the perfect time to bring in new members to our clubs. It costs less than $20 for someone to join now and then they are assessed the full dues in October (the start of the next administrative year).
I believe that bringing individuals interested in learning more about Kiwanis to a service project is the best way to show someone what Kiwanis is all about. They get the chance to participate in service and meet others in Kiwanis. This way, when they come to a club meeting, they have already met some people and do not feel as uncomfortable.
Do you know of any alumni of our Service Leadership Programs who live in your area? Invite them down to see what your club is doing and ask them to join. Alumni have the first two years of both their district and international dues waived. Can you do the same for their club dues? Can the club pick up the fees for the magazine, liability insurance and ESK for them? These individuals should already have an idea of what Kiwanis is about and are looking to get back involved with our Family. Maybe think about starting a Satellite Club with these individuals.
Has your club thought about corporate memberships? This is a great way to bring in school districts, banks, restaurants and other businesses/large organizations into our membership. A specific individual is indicated as the contact but anyone from the corporation can come to the meetings and projects. For example, if a bank joins and the manager is the main contact and then the manager is transferred, the new manager can replace him or her as the contact person without the bank having to pay the dues/new member add fee again.
We are only just beginning to grow in membership and need to go into the final stretch of the administrative year strong. If I or any member of the Membership Committees can be of assistance to you, please do not hesitate to contact me. The best way to reach me is at kscharoff@gmail.com
Column Posted on Web Site July 28, 2012
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