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I would suggest providing things that are inexpensive for an alumna to purchase but helps keep the chapters' budgets intact for their programming. For example, keep an eye out for inexpensive candleabras or other supplies that could be used to replace outdated or broken ceremony items. Maybe you provide New Member notebooks, mailing labels, or other supplies that the chapter has to spend money on. What about providing roses for ceremonies? These are little costs that all add up for the chapter. What about providing gifts for the new initiates/new members in their goody baskets/bid baskets. We all know what an expenses on a collegiate this can be so maybe you go in with other alums to create custom printed cups, magnets, etc that can alleviate the initiated members.
I would also suggest offering to help them maintain their alumnae database. My chapter has a datbase of over 1600 alumnae and it's not realistic for a collegiate alum relations chair to keep all those addresses/emails,etc up to date with annual turnover. We have alumnae upkeep that information as well as maintain our alumnae website where we post special announcements (births, promotions, weddings), which is something that a collegiate may not be as excited to do. I think time spent keeping your fellow alumnae excited and interested in the chapter is time well spent down the line.
We want our women spending money and time on recruitment, Public Relations efforts, developing sisterhood, and other initiatives that will perpetuate membership, promote retention, keep alumnae invested, and keep the chapter flourishing on a longterm basis.
Sorry this is so long, I'm still getting used to this particular board.
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