Cortney Surline - Attracting Young Members

Our own Cortney Surline spoke to us today about her presentations on “Attracting Young Members.”  Cortney has presented breakout sessions at district assemblies and has presented to various club throughout the district.  She is also a member of the District Membership Committee.  She reviewed for us today some of the things she covers in her presentations.

She tells her audiences that one of the best ways to attract young people to their clubs is through social media.  Most young people are on Facebook and Twitter.  These are great ways to reach a large number of people quickly.  She is, in fact, in the process of creating a new Facebook page for our club.  Cortney says that non-meeting events can be used to attract people to your club, regardless of age.  Things like our annual Buffalo Bills outing, or the dessert auction are great opportunities for us to “bring a friend” and introduce them to Rotarians without the rules and formalities of a meeting.

It is important, she notes, to get the Rotary name out.  She suggests that clubs sponsor Interact clubs in their schools – Roteract, too, when possible.  In addition, she suggests that club members invite young people along to help with projects.

Many young people are eager to help out with service projects.  They may not immediately join your club, but they will be exposed to Rotarians doing Rotary things, which could lead to new members down the road.  Some young people will have problems getting away from work and other commitments to attend weekly lunch meetings.  But, Cortney recommends, inform them about your club’s make-up opportunities.  Also, let them know that their help is still appreciated, even if they can’t join your club at that time.

Many of Cortney’s suggestions have been tried by clubs in our district with some success.  As she goes from club to club, she encourages her audiences to contact her with ideas and questions.  These get incorporated into her presentations, allowing her to stay current and recommend what has worked for others.  Many of the ideas presented are intended to attract young members, but could work for new members of any age.