[ASTalumna06]

Originally Posted by sisterdawn

I belong to small local sorority and even though our numbers aren't that large compared to other greeks we have plenty of alumni but over the past few years we've be losing touch with them and it's getting harder and harder for us to convince them to come out to events. Recently we were talking to a few other locals in the region and they mentioned having an alumni association. We thought that would be a great idea to keep the alumni active and help take some event planning off our shoulders. Were not exactly sure how to go about starting this and were looking for advice.

Originally Posted by sisterdawn

Well there is an organization on my campus where the alumni throw a big BBQ family type thing every year, that the actives take no part in planning. Obviously the actives plan on-campus events and anniversaries but since our alumni do NOTHING as it is and only complain about how they have families now that maybe they should plan a big family get together.

Originally Posted by sisterdawn

yeah i mean a bunch of them are in baby land but theres a good amount not. It's hard cause they constantly complain about everything but yet they don't have time to come out and support us. sucky situation

It sounds to me like YOU’RE the one complaining. What exactly are they so worked up about? If they complain about things that the active chapter is doing, they shouldn’t – and an alumni association isn’t going to fix that.

You say that you’ve lost touch with the alumni… why don’t you start there? Rather than forcing them to get together and plan events for the active chapter (something that alumni of any organization are not required to do.. nor should it be expected of them), why not plan something for them? Something as simple as an annual alumni dinner can go a long way. Even if many of them can’t attend, I’m sure it would make them happy to at least get an invite. Why not send out a monthly newsletter keeping them apprised of your recent accomplishments, your newest pledge class’s ceremonies, your next big event, etc. Alumni will be more willing to get involved if they know what’s going on in the chapter.

And here’s an idea… if they have young families and they live in the area, why not offer babysitting services? College students are always looking to make a few extra bucks, and young parents could always use an extra sitter.

There are a lot of things you could do for the alumni that won’t take up a ton of your time. And if you’re willing to do something for them, maybe they’ll do something for you (but don’t expect it!).