Lost Members

by Bill Roberge

It has come to my attention that we are losing more of our members during the first 5 years of membership than at any other time. Are we promising too much and then not delivering? I’m not sure, but I don’t think that’s the problem. I say that because I think we are doing a great job of protecting our freedom and our way of life. I think the problem may be contact with new members after they sign up and getting them more involved. I know I have talked about this before, but maybe we should put a little more effort into it and see what happens. One thing you can do in your region is to call new members and invite them to your regional meeting or other events you are holding in your area. If you’re lucky enough that they show up, make them welcome. If they come to your meeting remember they are new members and if they have an idea or make a comment that you know isn’t consistent with our goals, don’t just blow them off or embarrass them in front of the group. Explain to them after the meeting why that can’t be done in the way they suggested. Invite new members to help with your next event. Remember they are new and to use Hardtail’s words, ask them to bring the potato chips and go from there.

After the meeting don’t get caught in the mistake many of us make by sitting in our own little group. It might be a natural thing to do but make an effort to include those new members to join you. I still remember how it felt the first few times I went to an ABATE meeting. We were very lucky that members, now good friends, made us feel so welcome. That’s why we are still involved today.

It’s that time of year for chili cook-offs and Xmas parties. A great time to be kind to people, especially new members. Don’t miss the opportunity. We work hard to get bikers to sign up. Let’s work just as hard to keep them.

Don’t forget to check the newsletter for upcoming events. When you support an event, you support ABATE. When you support ABATE, you support your freedom.

Merry Christmas!

Ride Safe, Ride Free, Ride with ABATE.

Bill