Here are resources to make May a time for recruiting, orientation and more.

By Tony Knoderer

For many Kiwanis clubs, May is a great time for a club-strengthening campaign, whether it’s designed to emphasize recruiting people from the community or to strengthen the club’s value for current members. Or both! 

That’s why May is Membership Month at Kiwanis International. 

For your new members, we have resources that help build confidence and a sense of connection — and help them feel ready to lead from day one. In fact, whether members are just getting started or looking to deepen their understanding, these three learning opportunities provide a strong foundation for success: 

• Updated member orientation resources. Get new members set for success with our updated orientation materials. Use the refreshed PowerPoint slide deck to host a structured group orientation and reference the talking points for a more informal, one-on-one conversation. These tools make it easy to introduce Kiwanis values, expectations and opportunities in a welcoming way. Click here to get the newly updated orientation slides. 
• Kiwanis 101. Our newly recorded “Kiwanis 101” video is a quick, engaging way to help new (and seasoned!) members better understand Kiwanis’ history, organizational structure and global impact. We also have an excellent complement to the video: a helpful glossary of commonly used Kiwanis terms and acronyms, perfect for building confidence and clarity. Find links to the video and the glossary here. 
• Kiwanis Amplify. Take new member engagement to the next level by sponsoring participation in Kiwanis Amplify. This dynamic program helps new Kiwanians build leadership skills, expand their network and connect with members from around the world. Registration is just US$50. It closes April 30, so don’t wait! Register for Kiwanis Amplify here. 

 Of course, Kiwanis International has other tools, tips and resources to help your club find and attract potential members throughout your community: 

• Encourage clubs to plan a May open house and determine a guest list of invitees.  
• Use the Roster Analysis Worksheet as a reminder of individuals who likely would enjoy being part of Kiwanis — and whose skills, relationships and experiences could enrich a club’s impact.  
• Our resource on hosting potential members can help.  

Getting started
If May doesn’t work as Membership Month for your club, choose a month that does — and then take time in May to plan your event. Either way, get started now! Look at your May calendar of meetings, service projects, fundraisers and social events and invite guests to attend.