Parental consent
 

One of the big problems in our house is that parents of our rushees are opposed to thembecoming pledges. I know one of our older chapters has a program whereby their alumni call theparents to explain thebenefits of fraternities to the parents and this works well. but wedon't have that many alumnias we are ayoung chapter. Besides, I think some of the alumni we have would scare parents away!

what should we do?

Consider having one of your parents write a letter to all of the new member parents-- or someone from your school who is trusted and knows the value of Greek life. Parents like to hear from other parents--they trust them. They can explain how joing the group has changed your members for te better etc.

this may not help with the rushes, but we have a sister/pledge/family dinner where all the pledges and their families come and meet the sisters (active or alumni) and their families.. it gets rid of alot of fears about the sorority, families start to trust the girls more aftet they meet thema ll.

Start a parents' club if possible. Have them meet like once a month. Get the older girls' parents involved as well so THEY can reassure the newer parents. You probably wouldn't even have to tell them. Just get them all together, tell them what your group is all about, what is to be required during the new member process, etc...

That should work.

Do you have chapter advisors? Having them write a letter with e-mail addresses and phone numbers for questions would be beneficial. Also, holding Mom's Day or Dad's day for the parents to visit and see "what it's all about" may be helpful. Unfortunately it seems like we have to battle a lot of untrue stereotypes so the goal is show the positives of being greek. And obviously there are many, so this shouldn't be too hard! :D

I know that what was especially important to my family was knowing about alumni connections and how this may be help a new grad find a job!