Compiled by Ardis Bazyn
The second ACB membership committee call-in forum was again a success. Many members participated in the call. The time went fast and many ideas were expressed.
More publicity and special events were cited as common reasons that worked to interest newcomers. A good way to publicize your organization is to celebrate Braille Literacy Month (January) and White Cane Safety Day (October 15). Plan a special project that highlights the benefits of your affiliate. This is a great way to educate the general public in your area. Florida offers Project Insight, a program where newly blind people can contact individuals to get information about what to do if they are losing sight.
One of the topics discussed on this call was informed choice and consent forms. State agencies must send materials from all organizations of the blind to rehabilitation clients and other newly blind individuals who have signed consent forms. Of course, each affiliate must be responsible for the actual materials sent to these interested people. Highlighting the positive and beneficial aspects of your organization might help your affiliate to gain new members.
Another way to learn about other affiliates and their programs and successes is to have members participate in nearby state conventions. Sending announcements or invitations to other affiliates through affiliate newsletters or ACB lists on the Internet might encourage outside participation. You will also want to hear what’s happening at the national level. If you let “The Braille Forum” know a few months ahead, it can publish the date and place of your convention.
Involving all your chapter members will keep the chapters alive. Always ask your members to give ideas for future programs. Also, you will likely increase your chapter retention if you call the members who miss a meeting. If called, they will know you actually noticed their absence.
You might plan a first-timers’ breakfast for newcomers at your convention. Of course, a special time to welcome them and share some tips about your convention would also be helpful. Some subjects to cover might be: how members vote, what to wear for meetings or your banquet, what different meeting topics are, etc.
If your state has a diverse population, you should consider how to reach other groups: native American, Spanish, black, Asian, etc. Often, these blind people may be more sheltered and should be encouraged to join community groups. The California Council of the Blind has a Spanish connection which allows more people to learn what’s happening in CCB.
Different fund-raising events may also give publicity to attract new members. One affiliate is working with a national chain which will donate 5 percent to the organization. White Cane Day walk-a-thons may also be a good way to publicize the organization and inspire publicity.
Stay tuned for another membership update!