For current and potential members alike, a few simple acts can let people know they belong. 

By Julie Saetre

Everyone Kiwanis member wants to feel welcome — regardless of how long they’ve been with their clubs. Potential members need to know they’re joining a group eager to work with newcomers. And existing members want to feel valued. These seven simple actions can go a long way toward making everyone feel respected: 

• Consider your meeting location. Is your location convenient for all your members? Is it easy for newcomers to find? If not, seek out alternatives. You might also consider rotating meeting spots or adding a virtual option. 

• Ask members about their meeting time preferences. Some schedules don’t allow for daytime gatherings; others make evening meetings difficult. Member availability also depends on whether weekends or weekdays work best. Again, flexibility is key. Perhaps varying meeting times or days will allow for more member participation. 

• Respect people’s time. During your meetings, set an agenda and stick to it. If you say you will meet for an hour, don’t go past that. Also, make the most of the time you have. Don’t get bogged down in the minutiae that can be covered in a meeting with officers.  

• Ask for input. When people feel heard, they feel welcome. Some people are outgoing and offer ideas and suggestions freely. Others might hesitate to speak up. Ask your less-vocal attendees to share their thoughts. Also let all members and guests know how to provide feedback outside of meetings; some might prefer one-on-one conversations or email/text.  

• Make meeting minutes easily available. Every member will need to miss a meeting now and then, and you don’t want them to feel left out at the next one. Be sure they can catch up by ensuring minutes are written and distributed in a timely manner. It’s also a good idea to have minutes posted on your club’s website and/or linked in its social media accounts for the convenience of current members — and for those considering membership. 

• Invite potential members to service events. What better way to be welcoming than to invite nonmembers to join you as you serve your community? When that invitation is accepted, make sure your guests feel valued and included. Ask members to introduce themselves and work alongside your guests during the project.  

• Say thank you. Members and guests have a lot of options about how to spend their limited spare time. Let them know how much you appreciate them for their attendance, ideas, service and support.