South Lancashire’s recent membership workshop ‘Flexible Options for Club Management’ attracted nearly 30 Soroptimists from all over the Region.
The main topic of the day was the new flexible structure that is now available for clubs, if members choose. Our Federation has removed much bureaucracy in order to encourage autonomy for clubs and to foster viable executive teams. Flexibility should take pressure off club officers, and enable all members to focus more effectively on Programme Action.
The whole issue encouraged animated discussion, the pros and cons of this option being enthusiastically and thoroughly debated. The base of this revised structure is a bare minimum of roles, but this is not compulsory – clubs may be willing and able to share out functions to a wider circle of members. Ultimately, whatever works for each individual club is the right choice.
Delegates were generally in favour of having the opportunity to try a different format, especially if members felt it would strengthen their club and enhance their service capability.
Pat Williams (Regional Membership Officer) said, “This workshop was lively and very positive. Every Soroptimist came ready to listen and to participate – the sharing of good practice was in abundance.
“I must thank my colleague Margaret Carr (Regional Communications Officer) who led a session on using social media and other communication streams to our advantage. If a new flexible structure gives members more time for Programme Action, we need the right tools in order to ‘spread the word’ and raise our profile.
“I hope that delegates will continue the discussion at club meetings – and opt for change if change is due. Clubs can contact me for further guidance at any time.
“One final thank you – to SI Southport, for hosting the event in their fine club house”
