by Ardis Bazyn
Our first quarter membership focus call was on “What are essential elements for an affiliate web site?” The participants on the call had many excellent suggestions. The list below is not written in any particular order.
- The affiliate logo and Google map of main office
- A welcome message to visitors (text and recorded versions)
- Purpose and mission
- Major advocacy successes
- A list of affiliate chapters, with contact and meeting information
- List of officers and committee chairs
- Description of affiliate or chapter, and its history
- White cane laws and pedestrian safety PSA
- Recordings of conventions and meetings
- Newsletters
- Resolutions, constitution, minutes summary
- Upcoming events
- Members’ dues payment options
- Annual awards and scholarship info
- Leadership training manuals
- Conference information, including registration forms
- Board of directors meeting schedule
- Weekly announcements and updates
- Facebook and Twitter page links
- LinkedIn page or group link
- Surveys of interest, such as voting
- Donation link, including MMS information
- Banners and pictures
- Car donation program
- Press releases
- Resources in the community including transportation
- Sponsors and exhibitors (could charge)
- Planned giving
- A link to the ACB web site
Seminars at 2015 Convention
This year, there will be only one “Keys to the Convention” seminar for first-timers and those who haven’t attended the convention for some time. It will be held on Sunday, July 5 at 4:30 p.m.
The membership seminar will be held on Thursday, July 9 from 2:45 to 4 p.m. The topic will be “How to use your convention as a tool for membership.” There will be two panel discussions, too. One will tackle “Best practices for a convention”; the other will handle “Building attendance through outreach and communication.” Please plan to have at least one person from your affiliate attend.