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i don't think it can be said too many times....don't use "meetings." i wrote this beautiful post the other day, and then my computer froze....so bear with me as i try to remember what i said.
we have some events at people's homes....and some out and about. if we are having an event at someone's home we meet on a sat or sun afternoon or early evening. this way, it is still light out and people can find the house....and it is more convenient for the hostess. there are other benefits too, like, people don't have to leave work early to get home, change and eat....and the hostess doesn't have to worry about making sure the house is clean on a wed night! it is also easier for dads to take the kids out to chucky cheese or the playground on the weekends. when we have an event mid-week, it is held at a bar/ restaurant, etc. people can come dressed from work and can get some food!
the other thing that my chapter does is encourages members to bring friends, kids, and significant others. there are 2 events which are "sisters-only," founder's day and formal business meeting. all of the others are open to everyone. we have some husbands who are just a part of the gang! one husband is a FABULOUS cook!!! this is pretty helpful to our membership. phi mus in the area who don't know current members might not come if they have to come alone. brining a spouse or another friend, makes it easier. it also makes people more active. we have a younger member who is recently married....in the we don't leave each other stage...who always brings her husband. we may never see her if he didn't come along. the whole purpose of the alum group is to socialize, so it is great to meet new people!
perhaps you can plan some events that allow for children, too. we don't have too many members with young children, but we do have a mom's club. the get together every other month and take the kids to the zoo or something like that. we also try to plan a "family oriented" event every year that allows all members to bring their families...kids and all! a bbq or a picnic at a local park are great ideas.
we also understand that sometimes the ladies just want a night out to themselves, so we have a ladies night out once per month. it is just for the ladies.....but again, non-phi mus are welcome to join us. we usually meet for happy hour.
my friend just recently became the president of her alum chapter
which is much smaller than mine. she is trying to plan activities that are realistic for her group. she knows that only one or 2 people will show up if they have an event every month! and the events that she would like to host have to take into account that there are only a few members....even if everyone shows up!!
why don't you send out a survey and ask what kinds of things will get people to come out? even send it to non-club memebers (if your budget allows). this will give you an idea of what interests people. you can also ask if people are willing to host at their homes and what (and when) would be best for them.
i think i got everything i said the other day...i hope it makes some sense....i had a long day at work!!
best of luck and keep us posted!
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