If you’re struggling to find prospective members, reach out to these groups in your community

By Erin Chandler

You’ve recruited family, friends and coworkers to join the Kiwanis family — but your Kiwanis club is always looking for new members to serve the children of the world! Here are five ideas to jumpstart your club’s recruitment efforts outside of your immediate circle. 

1. Partner organizations. Think about companies and organizations that believe in your club’s mission and support you throughout the year. Get in touch with their leaders and ask if they would be interested in taking your partnership to the next level by sponsoring a corporate membership in your club — or if they would be interested in joining themselves. 

2. Diverse groups and businesses. Diversity is key to a successful club — it is important to seek a diverse membership to offer a wide range of ideas for how to serve and enrich your club’s impact. Research various business groups and nonprofits — including minority-owned businesses and organizations — that represent the demographics of your community. Seek opportunities to speak during one of their membership or board meetings to promote your club’s contributions to the community. Invite them to speak during one of your upcoming club meetings as well. You can find Diversity, Equity and Inclusion resources on the Kiwanis members page. 

3. New businesses and nonprofits. Scan local business articles and think about inviting owners of recently opened businesses and new nonprofit executives to attend a club meeting. Allow them to make a two-minute plug for their business, and make sure you provide them with Kiwanis membership information. 

4. Retired teachers. Invite local teachers who have recently retired to a Kiwanis meeting or service project. These individuals have spent their lives working with kids and might be looking for a new way to continue mentoring young people. 

5. Former members. Sometimes Kiwanians leave clubs when they are not fully engaged in activities, when life circumstances do not allow time for Kiwanis — or when no one attempts to reinvolve them. However, circumstances can change over time. You can “ReMember” a former member by inviting them to attend a meeting or event and following up with any concerns they might have about the club. Remind them that kids still need Kiwanis in your community and ask them to rejoin. 

If someone needs extra persuasion to join your Kiwanis club, check out these four responses to common objections.

By Tony Knoderer

Sometimes the person you’re trying to recruit for your Kiwanis club has an objection, or just a hesitation. Some of these roadblocks are actually pretty common. Here are a few that many Kiwanians have heard — and responses that have helped overcome them.  

• “I’m just too busy.” Explain that most Kiwanians have additional priorities and responsibilities. In fact, that’s a strength. Busy people prioritize what matters to them. Also explain that clubs decide how often they meet, and members decide how active they will be. 
• “It costs too much.” Whatever appeals to someone about Kiwanis, member dues are what make it happen. Let them know that dues allow Kiwanis International to pay for leadership education for members, club membership resources, club growth support, Kiwanis youth programs and much more.  
• “It’s hard to join.” Actually, they only need to complete an application and pay a prorated dues amount, depending on the month they join. 
• “I’m part of another organization.” Ask them to consider what Kiwanis offers — and whether it could complement their existing affiliation. Either way, thank them for serving the community and ask whether they know anyone who might be interested in Kiwanis. 

Whatever the response to your recruiting efforts, don’t forget to mention that a Kiwanis club is also a place to network with community leaders — and that membership helps develop leadership skills that improve careers, communities and relationships. 

The answers to a few questions can help create a positive experience for current and potential members.

By Tony Knoderer

For any Kiwanis club, retaining current members and appealing to potential members involve certain key elements. But for each group, one of the most important is accessibility.  

How easy is it for people to attend your club’s meetings and events, or even to find the information they need? Here are a few questions to consider:   

• Do you meet in a location that’s convenient for everyone — whether physically, geographically or in other ways? If not, make adjustments when possible or consider an alternate venue. 
• Does your club meet at a convenient time for everyone? If not, consider alternating or changing meeting times. In addition, alternative meeting options — such as a virtual option or satellite membership — can allow all members to participate.  
• Can members easily find meeting minutes if they are unable to attend?  
• Do your meetings and service projects accommodate members’ family commitments, career constraints or religious practices?  
• Does your meeting include a meal? The cost and/or time required may deter a potential new member. Consider making the meal optional.  
• Can a potential member find current information about the club on a website or social media page?  
• Are potential members included in club service projects? How is this advertised? 

If you want more tips and information about inclusiveness, we have a webpage with links to resources — including the “3 ways to make your club more inclusive” flyer, which features the above tips and much more.