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Over the years, I've been a member, treasurer, president, blah blah of 3 different alumnae associations in different cities. They all couldn't have been more different. If they could all work the way Chicago did, life would be great. The city is so big that there are 5 or 6 alumnae chapters around the city. But the CITY chapter was a fresh out of college, nobody from there chapter, and we had SOOOO much fun. I can't imagine my time in Chicago without these friends, none of whom were collegiate sisters. Then Cedar Rapids was a very large super organized group that got the big foundation checks for philanthropy and did tons of cool, important stuff. Huge variety in ages, but all very fun and welcoming women.
I started the KC chapter, and I struggled with all the things mentioned up-thread. However, I actually found attendance was BETTER when it was at a private home instead of in public, even though FHQ recommended public gatherings.
What it took to get women to come was 1-FIND THEM, and this wasn't easy. Every woman I found I tasked with researching a portion of the 700+ eligible women. Some were more enthusiastic than others, but it helped a lot. 2-don't intimidate them with all kinds of structure right out of the shoot. The time for study hours and philanthropy hours is past. Do a variety of things, but none of it should be mandatory, at least in a new or struggling alumnae chapter. I heard a story just the other day from a Tri-Delt that she wasn't involved in her alumnae chapter because if you didn't wear your pin to the alum meetings you got fined! Seriously? Lighten up.
The reason I'm not involved now is because the nearest chapter is about 8 time zones away.
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