The first quarter of the 2007-08 membership year ended September 30th as another record setting quarter. Membership records continue to be broken, however breaking records can be as disappointing as it can be exciting. I am talking about our record for membership renewals.
New memberships are self-explanatory. These are the people joining for the first time or joining after having not renewed for a period of time. New memberships are received on a regular basis, and account for 42% of the current membership. Our number of non-renewals is at an all time high. I took over the role of Membership Chair in January 2006, and there were 208 non-renewals from 2005. From the 2006 membership year to 2007, there were 379 non-renewals, and thus far for 2008, there are 517 members who have not renewed. Those members who have not renewed account for 44% of our 2007 membership. Over the past two year, nearly 900 one-time members have, for one reason or another, not renewed. I understand there are those who may have changed their field of employment, moved out of the area, or simply forgot to renew, but I am concerned there may be other reasons.
There are three “R’s” in membership: recruit, retain, and renew. As I thought about what those three words mean to me, I decided to review what they meant to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary.
Recruit is defined “to fill up with new members” and “to increase or maintain the number.” Retain is defined as “keeping possession of or use of” and “to hold intact.” Renew is defined as “to make new or restore” and “to obtain an extension of.”
How do we rate with the three R’s?
VJJA has successfully accomplished recruitment by continuing to bring on new members at a consistent rate. Over the past decade, membership numbers have doubled and are well on their way to being tripled. We are filling up with new members!
Retention and renewals are where we need improvement. As indicated previously our retention/renewal rates are lacking. VJJA has established an incredible group of core folks; people who have become the heart and soul of VJJA. As a 10-year member of VJJA, it is disappointing to see so many people come and go, knowing the contributions they could make to VJJA and the benefits VJJA has to offer members.
The VJJA website www.vjja.org lists the top 10 reasons to join VJJA as publications, recognition, communication, scholarships, networking, conference, training, advocacy, professional development and value. I’m just going to touch on my top five.
The number one reason for me is professional development. I can not think of any facet of my employment that would allow me to plan events, negotiate contracts, manage a large data base and small budget, and have opportunities to have published articles and to develop public speaking skills. A close second in my book is the advocacy. VJJA vigorously advocates for the rights and welfare of children and families before the General Assembly. VJJA also advocates for the rights and benefits of the professionals who work with the children and families of the Commonwealth. The third is training and conferences. The conference planning and training committees go to great lengths to provide training that is relevant, up-to-date and useful in our day-to-day work. Fourth is communication and networking; I love the opportunities to meet new people. VJJA provides the forum to meet other POs, social workers, counselors, JCOs, private providers, CSA Coordinators, everyone that has ever worked with youth; to talk about what’s happening in other areas of the state, to gain new ideas and think outside the box. Last but certainly not least, my top five reason for being a member of VJJA is the value. Most professional associations cost $50-$200; the cost to join VJJA is $20. A fantastic value!
Okay, so now I’m preaching to the choir, but some concepts to think about regarding your membership to VJJA. What does your membership mean to you? What do you make of your membership? What do you have to offer VJJA? This year is an election year and VJJA strongly encourages leadership…so step up to the Board or step up in your district…..become an officer, join a committee, be a committee chair, volunteer your time to staff a conference or other event. Get involved and make the most of your membership. As for me, I’ll be sending out reminders and renewals!
