Ask yourself and your chapter sisters, what components make us not want to miss our meetings? What makes us eagerly look forward to getting together? Certainly the special bonding time that builds and sustains members’ friendships might be the most frequent response. We enthusiastically anticipate these opportunities to personally reconnect
and renew with our supportive friends.
Maybe not the first answer for many, yet a crucial consideration is the structured time invested in meetings when we “make things happen.” The engaged planning and dedicated action that transpire during the Procedure for P.E.O. Chapter Meeting achieve our goals and purposes. Indeed, both these vital social and business functions bind our organization together as P.E.O. shapes the world into a better place.
There is also another “top of the list” answer for many members. At its finest, the third vital component of meeting time is a magnet program. The worthwhile topic or activity must be one that draws us. While not all programs need to be what might have been our personal choice, quality programming must be more than just “interesting”—it should be stimulating; more than just “enjoyable”—it should be valuable.
Quality programming is never an accident—it is always the result of high intentions, positive directions and sincere effort. It is crucial—today’s busy woman doesn’t want to sit through meeting after meeting wishing she were somewhere else…
This is a tall order for the program planning committee. Consider having a suggestion box for all members to participate in offering programming ideas. Ask questions to encourage input, i.e., what new skills
or topics would challenge or motivate? What might members like to try? What new variety will stimulate participation? Don’t minimize opportunities to explore relevant subjects. As continuous learners, we all benefit from being better informed.
If you are in a reciprocity group or an area with more than one chapter, plan brainstorming sessions with other chapter program chairmen. Share themes, ideas, speakers, skits, mixers. Borrow creativity. We don’t always need to reinvent the wheel. Keep an “idea file.” All members are resources. We must reach out and try new approaches in building a yearbook of effective, successful and inviting programs.
Speaking of inviting, consider including prospective members with chapter sisters during a special program and social time. This is a positive way to showcase the value of our meeting opportunities.
If your chapter hasn’t reviewed its approach to programming in a few
years, now may be the time. We cannot lull ourselves into thinking that
our current programming strategy will always continue to produce
invested members. We cannot neglect opportunities to understand different challenging topics because they might be out of our comfort zone.
Vital, energetic chapter meeting programs are a strong “plus” in strengthening chapter life as well as “Expanding Our Vision!” On behalf of the Sisterhood, I thank Donna Shavlik, Estes Park, Colorado, for seven years of dedicated service on the Cottey College Board of Trustees. Her gentle wisdom offered a valued perspective of women’s higher
education today.
Two new trustees were elected to seven year terms on the Cottey board effective June 1. We welcome Kathy A. Leffler, Chapter BA, Phoenix, Arizona, and Janet M. Hansen, Chapter DW, River Falls, Wisconsin, and are confident they will each serve with distinction.
Forward!
Elizabeth E. Garrels,
President, International Chapter
