Linda, I agree! Even though those volunteer forms we send out may get a good response not everyone remembers to fill them out or wants to commit to anything at that moment. I would be a rich woman if I had a nickel for everytime I heard (from someone I did not even know) "gee you should have called, I would have helped" I used to always go by volunteers who signed up, now I ask anyone and everyone I see or have a phone number for.

Here is what got me involved - just being asked. I know it sounds simple, but it was effective. At one time, our PTA board was a kind of clique that seemed to want to do everything themselves and didn't welcome new people or ideas. Those people eventually moved on and the new president, with whom I was only slightly acquainted at the time, asked if I or my husband would be interested in serving on the board and/or just helping out. I think it was the fact that she asked me personally that impressed me. Of course, not everyone will agree to help out, but I'm sure some people will.
Good luck!

I was in nearly the same position a few years ago. Is the lack of involvement new? I asked people who had been around what they felt the problem was, along with the staff. I found communication to be the best way to get them involved. I even received names of parent from teachers that panned out for me. Make sure to mention in your first newsletter all the things you would like to do this year, maybe some goals and also how you plan to finance those plans and let them know that help will absolutely be needed. List a calendar of events meeting dates and your contact info along with a volunteer sign up sheet. I do not know if you have memberships but if you do you can call people when they join and ask if you can call them to help at least once (be ready with a list of your needs in case you can plug them into something right then and there. Perhaps plan a back to school night. Be visible at student registrations, open houses and such. Just remind them what you do for the students and school. Best Wishes!

I have taken the position of president and need all the help I can get...please. :0) Our board consists of just 2 members. I have almost no parent help... I know we can change this all. I love my kids and I love working with all the kids at school. I love any help you can offer.