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Wildlife Action
“CHAPTER-GET-A-CHAPTER" PROGRAM
The primary goal of Wildlife Action's "Chapter-Get-A-Chapter" Program will be to build and develop local WLA chapters that will contribute to the overall goals of Wildlife Action.
When an existing State or Local chapter becomes a sister chapter for a new group, a one-to-three person sister chapter committee is formed. This chapter generally will take approximately four to six weeks to fully organize a new chapter.
The sister chapter will be required to assist the new chapter financially as well. $200.00 will be given the chapter to deposit in its pre-existing checking account. Chapter stationery will be printed by National. Members of the sister chapter committee will not receive remuneration from their chapter for developing a new chapter. However, if the sister chapter chooses, it may reimburse the sister chapter representatives for expenses incurred in traveling to and from chapter meetings.
A key leader in the community where the new chapter will be formed is located and requested to work with the committee from the sister chapter in compiling a list of potential members for the new chapter. These potential members are then invited to participate in monthly meetings.
Recruitment Techniques:
· stress the values of WLA membership - projects to preserve and conserve wildlife and the environment; educate everyone in the importance of responsible "use" not "abuse" of our natural resources; the joys of fellowship and sportsmanship and plenty of good old fun
· emphasize that "local folks solving local problems" is the most successful means of contributing to the community
· encourage "putting back more than we take" by involving both young and old in projects that improve the quality of life in the community for future generations
The Organizational Meeting:
Fifteen people will meet with the sister chapter representatives at the first organizational meeting and appoint the eight (8) Officers and six (6) board members for a Local chapter; (9 Board members for a State Chapter).
Application WLA Form #4 (State), Local, #5 (Local), will be signed by the newly appointed president and filled in completely.
This application form will then be mailed to National for CEO approval and a copy returned to the new chapter.
The organizational meeting for the new chapter will be conducted by representatives from the sister chapter. This will assist new members in learning through observation how to conduct a chapter meeting. It is very important that an atmosphere of friendliness be created. Experience has shown that dinner meetings lend themselves to a relaxed, fun-filled environment. Wildlife Action encourages a "pass-the-hat" approach to dinner meetings unless a meal can be cooked at a reasonable price.
An orientation course will be conducted at this organizational meeting to educate new members on chapter administrative duties. The secretary and treasurer will be taught how to set up proper records. All officers and board members are briefed on specific aspects of their position.
Continued Assistance:
The sister chapter's responsibilities are just beginning after the initial organizational meeting. The sister chapter will guide the new chapter through its meetings, help develop long-term projects and offer assistance throughout the first year of the chapter's existence.
The first year has proven to be the most difficult for a new chapter and usually establishes the pattern for its future. Wildlife Action provides the sister chapter with a follow-up program to aid in this important task called the Ambassador Program. By assigning one (1) or more ambassadors to meet monthly with the new chapter, WLA has found that communication is strengthened between the chapters and National Headquarters and guidance, encouragement and moral support are given.
Training:
Wildlife Action
publishes this book on how to start a chapter. This will aid sister chapters in
starting new chapters and new chapters in learning how to function properly and
efficiently. This material outlines a step-bystep approach needed to be successful. Staff from State or National will
also be available for consultation.
General training on how to build a new chapter is also offered in workshops held by State or National.
Members who have participated in the "Chapter-Get-A-Chapter" Program encourage and teach those interested in getting involved.
Motivation:
Why would an individual spend many days and nights traveling to another community, talking to people trying to convince them to join a conservation organization with little or no reimbursement for expenses incurred? The key may be that our members are unpaid volunteers to begin with. All the work they do in their local Wildlife Action chapter is voluntary; they are accustomed to giving time to a cause in which they believe.
Most successful new-chapter builders are also active and enthusiastic members of Wildlife Action, constantly promoting the benefits of community-service work. Making this opportunity available to others is natural for them.
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