"Encouraging a new generation of children to have a heart for the environment."
"Cultivating caretakes of the envirionment."
Chicago Wilderness, Fall 2005Club Connection
Working With Other Clubs
One of the most common challenges new NAWGS Clubs face is how to co-exist with other water garden or koi clubs in their area. They are often confronted with “turf” issues as well “philosophy” discrepancies. This does not mean that you can’t have synergy with another club in your area. It’s all about first impressions…hence the need for this letter.
Introducing yourself to an existing club can have so many outcomes. A multitude of factors will contribute to the success or failure of the meeting. The most important thing to keep in mind is that you probably have a lot to offer each other and could possibly join forces…even if it’s only once a year.
Here is a list of suggestions on how you might develop a working relationship with another Water Garden, Koi, or Garden Club:
- Send a letter of introduction to them (sample included).
- Call and invite leader of club to lunch to introduce yourself & Club.
- Offer to have some meetings together.
- Honor each other’s memberships.
- Keep each other informed of meeting dates to avoid conflict.
- Become a member of their club.
- Ask their leaders to become members of your club.
- Offer to advertise their meetings or events.
- Do at least one social meeting with them.
These are just a few thoughts. Perhaps some, all, or none of them will work. Be creative… You never know what could happen!
