New Member Unity

sigphidel1966 · #1 11-08-2006, 05:07 PM

I'm pledgemaster this semester, and it's the 5th week out of a six week program. We've been using the same program for the last 10 years, and I've seen 5 pledge classes go through. Everything we do always teaches unity, but these girls just do not seem to grasp the idea.

I was just wondering what you all did, without giving away your precious rituals - that could instill unity.

Any kind of team building or something that could possibly unify these girls would be great.

Thanks so much!

noobishactz · #2 11-08-2006, 05:14 PM

Have a pledge retreat where everyone needs to be involved so that actives and pledges get to know each other a bit more and see how the group can work together.

adpiucf · #3 11-08-2006, 05:50 PM

I think it is really important to stress all-chapter unity as a means so that when initiated, the pledge classes integrate fully and you have less to worry about with pledge class cliques. That being said, the pledge class should bond together.

I like the idea of having a retreat-- it could be an all-day event or a sleep over. Play getting to know you games, teach sorority songs, do a take-home craft and have lots of snacks. Check out a book of ice breakers for ideas on activities. There's also a book called "If" that asks some cool open ended questions and is a great way to get to know people. Ask the pledges to make up a new sisterhood song to teach to the sisters so everyone learns it and sings it together.

To teach unity, do an overnight fun retreat with the pledges and then have the sisters come for the second day. Integrate the chapter together as a whole and have them play getting-to-know you games and activities together. Perform skits that show the importance of following sorority policies, all-chapter unity, etc.

PhrozenGod01 · #4 11-08-2006, 06:50 PM

I'd recommend a ropes course ( or maybe an indoor climbing wall this time of year, depending on your location). In a way, it forces people who don't know each other, to rely on each other to abandon their fears. The sisters will learn more about each other(who has a fear of heights?) and learn to use each other's strengths(those who don't have that fear). And the environment is safe and fun. I never did it during my Greek life, but whenever I did a course like that, I became much closer to people I didn't know before.

noobishactz · #5 11-08-2006, 08:05 PM

We did an overnight camping retreat for the weekend. Just hung out with the brothers and did bonding activities.
We also had the pledges plan it. Try having a pledge activity that they need to plan and execute.

cutie_cat_4ever · #6 11-08-2006, 09:50 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by PhrozenGod01

I'd recommend a ropes course ( or maybe an indoor climbing wall this time of year, depending on your location). In a way, it forces people who don't know each other, to rely on each other to abandon their fears. The sisters will learn more about each other(who has a fear of heights?) and learn to use each other's strengths(those who don't have that fear). And the environment is safe and fun. I never did it during my Greek life, but whenever I did a course like that, I became much closer to people I didn't know before.

I totally agree with rope courses. I was an orientation leader at my school, and we went to a retreat that has a rope course. Ever since that retreat, all the leaders became so close together it was amazing.