April showers bring May flowers and a fresh, new start following the long, cold winter.   This glorious season has finally arrived.  This is the time of year when we need to start planning for the coming year with fresh, new ideas to promote BPW’s mission and vision.  The installation of officers for the 2006-2007 year will be taking place soon.  Current and incoming officers need to review and analyze the activities and programs of the past year.   Did the activities meet the criteria of BPW’s mission and vision?  Are improvements needed and if so, where?   Were the programs geared to appeal to all age groups?   Did you make available to your community and club members information on local, State and National legislative issues through your programs?  Did you provide BPW visibility by offering any of the Signature Events in your community?   Was an event planned to acknowledge National Business Women’s Week?   Any plans for Equal Pay Day on April 25? 

Membership is a primary concern for all clubs.  The use of a club survey will help identify the needs and interests of your current and prospective members.   Check through your local newspaper for articles on “women in the news” and invite them to your next meeting.  Plan an open house to recruit new members. Consider using any of the Signature Events or partnering with another organization as a means to promote BPW and recruit new members.  Have senior members serve as mentors to new members.   Make the first visit by a new member a memorable one.  Also, make them feel a part of the group by inviting them to serve on a committee.   

In planning your budget for the coming year, allocate funds for your officers to attend BPW/MI meetings.   Obtain club membership with your local Chamber of Commerce.  It will provide opportunities to meet potential members through networking with other organizations.  Investigate ways you can assist members who are finding it difficult to pay the current dues amount.  Sometimes, the thing a person feels they can least afford is actually the thing that means the most to them.  BPW is an important part of many members’ lives.  Try to ensure that the relationship between member and club continues.    

REMEMBER to wear Red on Equal Pay Day, April 25! 

IT’S NOT TOO LATE to register for the State Conference to be held in Sault Ste. Marie, May 18-21.   The Early Bird Registration has been extended to May 5.   Register online today and save $15.00.   After May 5, all registrations will be $160.00.   Every local should have at least one representative attend the Leadership Development Program on Friday, May 19.   

I look forward to seeing everyone at the Soo! 

Dorothy Crimmins

Finance Chair