The Current State of Service Clubs in Our Community

As an individual who throughout their adult life has donated many hours of service back to the community, it is very interesting to witness the current state of affairs with service clubs and not for profits in our amazing community. It is unfortunate, but the harsh reality is that service clubs and volunteerism seem to be phasing out of the fabric of our society.

The question is why? Over the last year I have had the opportunity through my local Kiwanis Club to assist in the development of new projects and work on attracting new members and volunteers to participate. This has provided me the opportunity and exposure to give this very important subject a lot of thought. busy

- Time is a major issue. People live lives so their available time to give to community service is limited. Two to three hours per month is about maximum.

- Too many meetings. Members not wish to spend hours and hours in meetings. One or two per month with the remainder of time being given to projects or team building with other members.

-Personal growth and fulfillment. organizations tend to just raise money and donate to numerous causes. This is admirable but the modern club member or volunteer has a desire beyond just raising money and wish to engage in meaningful projects, which not only assist the community but provide the participant with new skills and experience. - New ideas. Organizations have be willing to be open to new ideas and adapt to different ways of executing projects. Often you hear of clubs very entrenched in their thinking which make it very difficult to attract and retain new members.

- Not one size fits all. Organizations to open the doors to all individuals from all walks of life. A cross section of professions, trades, skill sets and experiences. The more diverse the club the more expansive the ideas and projects. I can say that the Gas City Kiwanis Club, of which I am a member, has come a long way in adapting to these new paradigms for service clubs. If you wish to find out more information about what we are doing and how you may wish to become involved, I would enjoy having that conversation.