If asked, I will readily admit that I have been a member of the IBM and the SAM. I reached the second level of the Order of Merlin before dropping out during the pandemic. I believe that I reached more than ten years with SAM in spite of my many in’s and out’s. Currently I’ve been back with the IBM for two years.
Clubs, like the IBM or SAM or even service clubs like the Elks or Eagles, are struggling. The membership is aging. When I attended the SAM convention right before the pandemic, it seemed like the average attendant was well into their sixties – maybe seventies? The challenge is to have a reason to attend.
Unfortunately many club members assume that the reason needs to be provided by the officials. They want to show up, sit and be entertained or to be tipped some secrets or something other than engage and encourage others.
However we make the meeting worthwhile by performing, sharing our ideas and experiences, making recommendations and suggestions, and being active. If we sit there disengaged and bored, then the meeting will be boring. If we want a fun meeting, then we have to make it fun. It’s up to us.
