we also recruit BEFORE someone leaves, so we always have 2 people.. but that's not always realistic. When we are in a bind, without a chair. we usually solicit for help on the " bake sale team"... then we wait and see who steps up and takes charge.. and then we go in for the kill ( ie ask them to become chair [img]smile.gif[/img] )...
We have found that by using the word " team" instead of " committee" people somehow seem less intimidated..
We also do the 'help wanted' ads but put them in our newsletter, flyers home and the monthly email to parents. We try to stress that co-chairing an event with another parent is an available option and that new chairpersons will always have a support network of experienced parents to help out.
GaMom-That's a great idea. I have passed around sign up sheets at the meeting (with not much success). Your idea would be less intimidating.
Thanks everyone!
have you thought about posting help wanted positions? you could make a flier and post them at your meetings and where parents gather (front of school, etc) and be sure to list exactly what the job entales.
I'm the PTO president at my son's elementary school. I don't focus on worrying about getting coordinators. PTO officers are the one's who end up doing the work at our school because the parents don't want to be bothered. It would be nice to have committees and coordinators for things to ease the burden but at our school, it's just not realistic.
I agree with zeekaboo, the time to get someone is BEFORE someone else leaves. We try to have co-chairs for everything, no matter how big or small the event. One is usually a grade or 2 above, so the other one can " learn the ropes" and then take over and get someone new " under" her when the older one leaves.
In recent years, people are becoming more reluctant to commit to " chair" positions. We have reworded our pleas for help by stating ( in newsletters, open house, etc).. that we are looking for " a team" who will help coordinate and execute a particular event. Once we have a group of people signed up, we go over the list and hand pick people to call and ask if they would like to help organize . Usually once you give details about an event, and make a personal invitation, people will say yes.
Remember, it's tough for people to say to the PTO President, whom they see does SO MUCH... " no I don't have time"... they will usually see they CAN do it, and will have fun!!
Stroking egos does wonders for building a successful team. - and so do these genuine words.. THANK YOU.
Say thank you A LOT. Thank random parents for coming to events, thank someone for doing something very small, like making punch at open house. Call them by name! These are little things, but go a long way in building a team.
