Dear Kiwanis Leaders:
Traveling by Train
This past week, while traveling by train in Europe, I was reminded of what it feels like to be an outsider. Although there were thousands of people traveling on the same trains, because I did not speak the language or have the ability to read the directional signs, I was at risk of losing my way. The people around me all seemed to know where they were going, and for most of them this was very familiar territory. Fortunately, our world also includes special people who pay attention to those around them and are always willing to help. Because I was able to ask questions and receive guidance, my journey was successful. For someone who is new to Kiwanis, I am sure it feels much the same. As outsiders they don't know our Kiwanis language and they are not familiar with the customs and traditions that we take for granted. Fortunately, we have thousands of classic Kiwanis members who have traveled this way before and have the knowledge and experience to assist. As we grow Kiwanis to a million members over the next eight years, we need to keep in mind that 740,000 of these people will be new to the organization. As leaders, I would encourage you to consider how we can organize ourselves so that newcomers are warmly embraced, and that everyone feels like they are part of the Kiwanis family.
Another observation from my train experience was how people's behavior changes when the train is getting ready to leave the station. Those that are already on the train are usually sitting comfortably in their seats, without concern for what is happening around them. But for those not yet on the train, the experience is quite different. As the clock winds down to departure, people approaching the train glance at their watches and pick up their pace. When the train sounds its warning whistle, those that are still on the platform begin to run to an open door. Some people push their way past those who are struggling with their bags, totally focused on their own needs. Others stop to assist the elderly and the children to make sure that everyone gets on the train. Those that are already in their seats are not even aware that some people are struggling to get on. At Kiwanis, it is time for us to look at our watches and pick up the pace. Our public announcement of our goal to have a million members by 2015 was much like the train whistle at the station. The whistle has sounded and it is time for everyone to get on the train. For those that are already comfortably seated, it is time to get up and assist others to get on board. As leaders, it is our job to make sure that there is a seat for everyone and that no is left standing at the station. All aboard!
New Web Sites Under Construction
In San Antonio, we will be previewing some new Kiwanis web sites that are currently under construction. Our current public web site, www.kiwanis.org, is being totally redesigned and refreshed in a way that should allow for much easier navigation. This site will be focused on information that will be of interest to the general public, the media, potential donors and new members. A new site, www.kiwanisleader.org, is being designed as a resource for all of the leaders in the Kiwanis family from the International Board all the way up to the local club officers. This site will be loaded with resources and information designed to improve communication among Kiwanis Leaders, while providing a host of new tools and resources. Kiwanisleader.org will include online communities where leaders cannot only receive information, but can also respond and react and transfer information to other Kiwanis leaders. We look forward to sharing with you some major advancements in technology and communication that will be delivered using these two new sites, as well as some additional surprises.
Thanks for leading.
Rob