Running for an office

SophieCat · #1 12-02-2008, 10:17 PM

I am applying for an officer position in my sorority for the first time. My ideal position is service chairman. However, I don't have a car, and the city I am doesn't have a reliable public transportation system. I don't want to organize service projects, such as collecting canned goods for a charity, and then having to rely on one of my sisters or my boyfriend to drive me downtown (not a fun driving trip!) to drop it off. My chapter is small compared to the number of offices we have, so there is a strong possibility I will get one of my top two choices.

I am passionate about service but do not want to have to be a hassle to my friends for every project I plan!

Any ideas? Or should I just choose another office to run for?

KSUViolet06 · #2 12-02-2008, 11:24 PM

I held a few chairs in undergrad that required me to get around town and do things when I didn't have a vehicle. I handled alot via phone, but generally, one of my sisters didn't mind running me by places if I absolutely needed to get something done (particularly when I lived in the house). For example, when I was awards chair, I placed orders for things over the phone, and asked my roomie or someone to drive me to the award shop to pick them up. If I couldn't, I walked or took the bus (our town has a great public transportation system for a college town).

I don't believe you should let that deter you, but definitely figure out how you would get from point A to B.

SWTXBelle · #3 12-02-2008, 11:46 PM

I would assume that service projects will require the majority of the chapter to attend - so getting a ride shouldn't be a problem.

AOEforme · #4 12-02-2008, 11:57 PM

That happens a lot in our chapter, because having a car in Madison is a major pain in the butt and parking is super expensive. What we do is ask for rides or drivers WELL in advance. If you do that, you should be fine!

GammaPhi88 · #5 12-03-2008, 12:26 AM

That particular chair in my house does not have a car, and she seems to manage quite well. Because it is never only her participating, as many of my sisters are usually more than ready to help out, generally another sister is usually more than happy to drive. Go for the position, car or not! Its most important that you run for something you are passionate about and will enjoy doing.

And good luck on running for the first time...I did the same just this week. Its nerve wracking, but its a good exeperince to have. Let us all know of your outcome.

#6 12-04-2008, 12:53 PM

There are many girls in my chapter who hold positions like that and don't have a car at school. If you have to get other girls to help drive you places, all that means is that you will be working as a team with everyone else in the chapter and you will have to make sure everyone is informed about what is going on. There is no way you'd be able to go power hungry and try to do everything yourself.