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Apathy is a dangerous thing. It can destroy a chapter.
Recommendations:
1) Involve your alumnae
* Hold a Reunion Evening where alumnae attend a special meeting held in lieu of chapter business. This can be attributed to an alumnae relations effort. Everyone can wear letters instead of pin attire. The alum will bring their scrapbooks, mementoes, etc., and talk about what campus was like in "their day." They can encourage Q&A from the chapter members. One of the alum present should bring an item from a chapter that has closed-- like a chapter award. Talk to the chapter about the importance of caring about image and leadership, about friendship for one another, etc., and how sad it is when a chapter closes, and the chapter's belongings are auctioned off at an estate sale, items that have been in the house for 50-100 years or more. At the end of the meeting, do a [insert stuffed animal mascot here] passing where each member shares her thoughts and feelings about the chapter and friendship. Only the member with the mascot in her arms can speak. Tears and laughter will flow freely. End with a meaningful sorority song that everyone knows. Include your new members in this meeting, too.
2) How does the chapter think the exec board is doing?
Often exec board can unintentionally be perceived as a clique. Once a year, in lieu of chapter business, hold an open forum meeting for chapter members called "How are we doing?" Allow members and exec board to express feeings, ideas and frustration. Plan solutions as a chapter and set goals for the next 6 months that are acheivable and measurable, with someone in charge of each goal. Encourage chapter members to set personal goals and to share those goals with the chapter. Each chapter member can select a mentor to help keep her motivated and wanting to meet her goal. Regroup in 6 months and reward those who met their goals. Recognize all the goals met and have a special sisterhood event. Set new goals, etc....
3) Communication
The chapter should be an integral part of planning chapter direction. In #2 I talked about goal setting. Involve the chapter in things like Recruitment Needs-Assessment of New Members, chapter goals in scholarship, putting together a PR plan, etc. Fom committees to support key officers in their roles. This will give all chapter members an opportunity to explore a new area of interest and give the exec an opp to delegate to the chapter. It will alleviate officer burnout and also give passionate members a chance to share their passion.
Good luck and feel free to PM me. I have been in your shoes before.
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