MY DEAR FELLOW LIONS,
It has been noticed in most of the clubs Board and Business meetings, the attendance of the members is very meagre which deprives and discourage the regular attendees to perform or resolve any important matters / resolutions in absence of the majority members.
All the club President should pause this question and ask why these members who had prior to their enrolment in Lions clubs had taken oath that they will show their faith in the worthiness of their vocation by industrious application to the end, attend club meetings and take active interest in the civic, cultural, social and moral welfare of the community and pay all the club dues on time are not fulfilling their obligations?
Turning back to the title of my subject “Improving Club Meeting Attendance” there are various methods which can be used or are used to encourage the members to attend the meetings.
First and foremost the circular of the meeting should go to all the members a couple of weeks ahead of the meeting date.
Second reminder should be sent to all the members either by SMS or Telephone call two days before the meeting.
Time to start and adjourning the meeting should be adhered to.
The friendly and conducive environment (venue) of the meeting attracts more members to attend.
Interesting and varied programs at each meeting will attract more attention and get better attendance.
Members want to attend the meetings that are stimulating, well organized, informative and entertaining.
Ensure to make a proper follow up and Implement the Directives of the District Governor Hand Book.
Ensure successful meetings and stronger attendance by coming up with an exciting and interesting program mix, that will encourage lions to keep coming back for more meetings.
Here are a few suggestions:-
Keep Club Members Informed
Your club is active in the community, supporting many institutions and help those less fortunate. You may have a Lions Eye Refraction camp, Health and Medical camps, Tree planting, Provision of School desks and Books, Bore-wells, Food and clothes to the orphans, etc. Your members will want to receive news and progress reports on these community activities and hear from the committee convenor with whom they are working.
Programs and Activities
Your club must have stimulating programs and activities that are meaningful, enthausiastic and properly organized. Keep your members informed of what’s happening in their club. Lively interesting meetings will help to create the impetus for individual member to participate even more actively in club meetings and activities.
Immediate Involvement
Help new members feel important to the club by involving them immediately in club activities. Keep the sponsor involved with helping new members to grow in Lionism.
Invite Community/Business Leaders/ Civic Leaders to Speak
Many speakers from local business, professions and civil/Government organizations can share their insight and lead discussions that will involve and inform members.
Use Program suggestions from Lions Headquarters
Lions Club International (LCI) creates tools and programs that can be used at club meetings. Foe example; LCI has available the video
The future is ours……… so now what? Along with the guideline demonstrating how youth of to-day can be encouraged to become more involved in local communities. This and other programs from LCI can spark discussions and help make meetings more interesting. Contact the Public Relation and Production Division at LCI for more information and list of Lions- related programs and resources.
Invite Lions From Other Clubs
Members will be interested in what’s happening with nearby clubs, opportunities to meet and mingle with other lions will provide a unique fellowship experience.
Investigate Entertainment Options
Vary your programs by occasionally having entertainers program.
Don’t Forget Your Own Members
Your own members may have talents or interest that could be turned into stimulating program.
Good Programs Come From Good Organization
Make sure meetings are well-planned in advance. Get the word out to generate interest in your club meetings and program.
Before concluding I would like to present you with a Memorable Quote.
You cannot fail with a plan
Wanting success isn’t sufficient enough to get it.
You have to ask yourself, “What am I going to do
To get the things I want?’
Your problem is how to bridge the gap which exists
Between where you are now and the goal you intend to reach.
You cannot fail with a definite step by step plan,
Because each step carries you along to the next step, like a track.
All you need is the plan,
The road map and the courage to press on to your destination.
Once again, you cannot get lost on a straight road.
Wishing you all the best in improving the attendance of club members at the Board /Business Meetings and activities.
With kind regards,
LION ABDUL MAJEED KHAN
PDG / PMCC – M. D. 411
GMT – DIST. COORDINATOR - DIST. 411B
