Dave Curry
Concept Eight - Internet Clubs, The Future is NOW
Some districts have, or are in the process of forming, Internet
Clubs. As a member of the first "official" Internet
Club, built by the 1999-2000 Governors and made up of members
worldwide, it's been an opportunity for a new and meaningful
form of communication, as well as a way to expand our sphere
of influence. Filled with potential and giving individuals
who did not have the chance before to serve mankind, these
clubs also have obstacles to overcome. From experience in
the Tombstone Club, here are some thoughts and ideas to help
empower these clubs within your district. But first a story
- Several years ago I went downstairs to find one of our youngest
sons, then 14, on the computer in an online "chat room"
discussion. When asked whom he was chatting with, he responded
"Keegan". It's important to note here that Keegan
was one of my son's best friends who only lived 3 doors down
from us! We need to recognize that the world of communication
has changed and to take advantage of the opportunities that
this presents to us, adjusting to this new world.
Internet Club Considerations:
- Form clubs around groups accustomed to using Internet
chat rooms for communication. We struggled at times because
of the number of club individuals who were not "chat
room" literate.
- Consider forming clubs around groups with a like interest,
but diverse locations. Past Circle K members, past fraternity
members, members of a group with like interests (book clubs,
etc.).
- Form clubs around groups who have not previously had the
opportunity to be involved in our type of service; homebound
individuals, individuals that live in remote areas, past
Kiwanians where a club has folded or where they have relocated
to an area where a club does not exist.
- Think outside the box for relevant Internet club projects
and meetings. Since our club was not centrally located for
our members, literally spread out in the world, we were
hard pressed to come up with a project that captured our
collective heart. We finally adopted Children Of Peace International,
a project led by 2002 Kiwanis International World Service
Medal recipient, and fellow Kiwanian, Bihn Rybacki - as
our official cause, and we have pursued that effort since.
- Be very patient - airplanes & cars have come a long
way in sophistication and functionality since their adoption
in the early 20th century. Internet clubs are also just
starting and need the same leeway to reach their full potential.
If given a chance, I believe these clubs will become a valuable
tool to attract new members that were not able to participate,
or not interested, in what we offer.
- Another idea? PROPOSE IT! The book is still open on these
clubs; on their structure, organization, and especially
on their acceptance as viable ways of sharing the Kiwanis
experience. Familiarize yourself with both their potential
and how they best fit into our organization, and then be
involved in making sure that their contribution is both
valuable and welcomed in your district.
Sometimes leadership requires openness to new opportunities,
revisiting old assumptions, refocusing others on new possibilities,
and then empowering the team on implementing new district
directions.
For more information contact:
Name: Dave Curry
Address: 1204 W Woolman
 Butte,
MT 59701
Phone: (406) 723-8067
email: Dave Curry
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