CHAPTER VISIT BENEFITS
One of the many benefits that PTWW provides to Chapters includes an in-person Chapter visit from a PTWW Representative (Rep) with the goal of providing a positive and productive visit-related experience. The following information covers reasons for Chapter visits, how to request a visit, what the Chapter should expect from the visiting Rep, and what the visiting Rep should expect from the Chapter.
REASONS FOR CHAPTER VISITS
- Chapters celebrating a significant Anniversary (i.e. dates ending in a “5” or “0”) or similar event.
- Chapters facing major challenges (i.e. falling membership, fewer than 20 members,
less than 3 active Board members, leadership crisis, lack of volunteers, etc.) - Start-up development for new Chapters
- Requests by Chapter Leadership to address pressing Chapter concerns not solvable by emails,
phone calls or video meeting.
How to Request a Chapter Visit Fill out and submit an online Application for Chapter Visit form, ideally at least 60 days before the requested Chapter Visit date(s) to allow ample time for scheduling
Expectations of the Chapter for a typical Chapter visit:
- Provide meeting opportunities for the PTWW Rep to get a better understanding of the Chapter visited. This should ideally be done at three separate meetings with the following persons: The Chapter’s President/Leader; The Board/Leadership Team; some Chapter members. The meeting locations should be conducive to productive conversations (i.e. quiet and not during a Chapter’s Board Meeting).
- Discussions will cover the Chapter’s internal and external Strengths, Challenges, Goals and Plans. Based on those discussions, additional topics may include strategies for recruiting and publicizing, potential alliances with other organizations and Chapters, building resilient Chapter Boards, website enhancements, engaging Chapter events, best practices recommendations and more.
- Consider providing suitable lodging (a basic guest or hotel room), Chapter-related meals and meeting expenses, and local ground transportation (if air or train travel is involved).
- Keeping the Rep updated about planned activities, requests and schedule changes before and during his visit.
Expectations of the Visiting Chapter Rep for a typical Chapter visit:
- Basic familiarity with the Chapter, its Service Area, web and Facebook site, e-newsletters and print materials (if available) and local area resources.
- Work with the Chapter Leader on planned schedules, travel and lodging and other visit-related matters.
- Active listening and productive conversations with Chapter leaders and members about the topics mentioned above in order to better understand the Chapter, its strengths, challenges, goals and needs.
- Advocating on behalf of the Chapter and offering assistance when requested to address Chapter-related concerns and challenges. Provide post-visit follow-up as appropriate, promised and as needed.