How important is it that we recruit new members, promote Gold Rush and sell bike raffle tickets? Let's review some facts.

Fact 1: Since September 11, 2001 the membership numbers of our and many other service organizations, have decreased.

Fact 2: The cost of serving our chapters, states/provinces and regions has risen.

What are the costs of serving association needs?

1. Providing liability insurance for our chapters, states/provinces, and regions for the fun activities and functions we all enjoy. These would not be possible without insurance. Insurance costs have risen dramatically, especially in Canada.
    

2. Funding the production and mailing of Touring News. Advertising offsets some of the cost, but advertisers ask two questions, “How many readers?” and “How much for an ad?”  Fewer memberships (readers) mean fewer advertisers are interested in advertising and the less we can charge for ad space. Postage costs are a huge factor and they continue to rise.
    

3. Covering the costs of basic member services through our office. Look at your household expenses and you'll have an idea of how basic costs have increased for our office.
    

4. Covering the cost of a mandatory yearly meeting of the GWTA Board of Directors.

 These are the four major expenses at the National level.

 If our membership numbers are declining and attendance at Gold Rush is less and we're selling fewer bike tickets then it's safe to say our revenue is also dropping. Imagine if your household incomes were to drop considerably and your savings were low or nonexistent. We are facing some tough choices and need your help. Membership dues alone will not cover basic needs of our members, chapters, and our association, even after the dues increase. We MUST recruit new members and bring back members who were lost due to the downturn in the economy since 9/11. The health and future of our chapters depend on recruiting new members. We must also enthusiastically promote Gold Rush and encourage the sale of bike raffle tickets. GWTA belongs to all of us and we all share in the responsibility of growing it and keeping it healthy. Let's all do our part to keep GWTA alive and well so the fun and friendship can continue for many years to come.

To receive credit for the Chapter Olympics, chapters are expected to sell at least 10 tickets per membership in the chapter. 
 

Someone who always sells a large number of raffle tickets is Danny Holdsworth of Chapter V in Washington state.  Danny may be a little aggressive in how he goes about selling tickets, but his basic philosophy would work for anyone:

1. Set a goal

2. Always have tickets ready to sell

3. Take advantage of opportunities

4. Do a benefit sale ("Would you like to win a new Gold Wing for $1?")

5. Be creative and have fun!

Read Danny's whole approach in his own words!