By Rick Grotton,
Membership Committee Director
207 582-5915
There are many active Granges doing many events, which are well-advertised and appealing to the public. What a great way to attract new members. I know of a few that have done so successfully. This is probably the easiest way to attract new members. Keep in mind that any public or community event is also a membership drive, not just a fundraising event. Take advantage of this opportunity.
When speaking to interested parties, be prepared to answer their questions. Subjects in which they are interested include the following:
- The history of the Grange.
- What is the Grange?
- What does the Grange do?
- Rituals and traditions.
- What has the Grange done to affect our lives now and in the past?
- Is the Grange just for farmers?
- Is it family-friendly?
- Meeting times and dues.
- Why did you join?
- Benefits (insurance, discounts (for example car rentals)
If you are unsure of the answer of any of these questions, we have literature that explains and covers these areas. Give them contact names and numbers, and make sure they are not confused when you end your conversation. The Grange is a great organization and an opportunity to change one’s life for the better. There are many people out there who are waiting for you to ask or invite them to become a member. Do your best to encourage them into membership. Open up a new world for them; one of knowledge, history, and helping fellow community members. Make this world a better place in your little corner of it. Get out there and recruit!