Orlando Diocesan Council of Catholic Women (ODCCW) at n/a, Orlando, FL 32802 US - KEYS TO UNLOCKING YOUR MEMBERSHIP POTENTIAL

Most organizations are interested in increasing their Membership. It is important to remember, however, that Membership is tied directly to other key ingredients such as Communication, Hospitality, and Leadership. Membership is most likely to increase if an organization also grows in these areas. A new member will probably not thrive in a group unless she is informed, welcomed and able to share her gifts.

(Need a graphic of a treasure chest to symbolize the organization: can make one or use a metal box to look like a chest; also will need to have 4 keys for each area of the presentation, these can be made of cardboard or can use metal keys. Each will unlock the treasure chest as a symbol for the four key ingredients of the organization.)

Communications - WHO ARE WE? (Communications Key)

1. Form a Public Relations Committee
2. Publicize your activities in as many media as possible: in parish bulletin (at least 3 times), on a web site, in the local and diocesan newspapers, through pulpit announcements by parish priest or one of your members, on cable TV and by e-mail if available;
3. Flyers need to look professional and spectacular; produce them by computer making good use of eye-catching color, graphics, and fonts;
4. Identify your audience and "pitch" to them; e.g., empty nesters may be looking for something worthwhile to do; young mothers may be looking for adult companionship with child care; working women may be looking for spirituality;
5. Regularly mail/e-mail a newsletter to all women of the parish promoting the work of and membership in the Council of Catholic Women; ask your pastor to contribute a column or letter. Make special efforts to keep in touch with your council members, especially those who don't attend regularly.
6. Try something wild and wacky; have a gimmick to get the women's attention;
7. Remember the PR Rule: Tell everybody everything every time;
8. Take actions photos and display them at church - especially during events such as annual CCW Sunday.
9. Invite the press to your events.

Membership - WON'T YOU JOIN US? (Membership Key)

1. Recall what it took to get you to join;
2. Issue personal invitations, which are often the most effective;
3. Plan programs and activities that are worthwhile and serve your mission;
4. Reward members who bring new people to events or meetings;
5. Give new people a small job right away - e.g., to bring cookies to next meeting;
6. Members should be identifiable (e.g., by ribbons, special name tags);
7. Hold a membership drive in the fall and give a dues discount;
8. Brainstorm or take a survey;
9. Be open to new ideas.

Hospitality - WE'RE GLAD YOU ARE HERE! (Hospitality Key)

1. It's more than refreshments, but that's a good start;
2. Use name tags;
3. Circulate and welcome everyone, make it a point to sit with and chat with people you don't yet know;
4. Treat new people to something special - e.g.:

1.      "limo" rides to their first meeting,

2.      being first in the refreshment line,

3.      a flower or small corsage;

5. Assign Table Hostesses to make sure everyone is introduced, included, and offered refreshments
6. Follow up with a call or e-mail to thank a new woman for attending and to ask her for feedback.

 

Leadership - WHO CAN WE BECOME? (Leadership Key)

 

1. Maintain up-to-date Job Descriptions for all positions and keep Bylaws current so that everyone knows what is expected;
2. Use a mentoring system whereby seasoned members are paired up with new members, committee chairs, or officers;
3. Have well planned fund-raisers so you can invest in your members and women:

• Offer grants to attend conventions, conference and leadership training sessions offered locally or nationally;
• Purchase and use the NCCW Resource Manual, Leadership Videotapes, Commissions Packets, and Mentoring Resource.

 

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