For a number of months, Kiwanis has been exploring new ways
of reaching the next generation of Kiwanis members. Research on
societal and cultural trends, changes in employment practices, where people
work and live, and how younger people spend their money and time has all helped
inform our thinking about what changes might be necessary to reach a next
generation. Although these trends
may not be as prevalent in all Kiwanis countries, there are common patterns to
be observed. Following are some of
the early findings our research:
·
Technology has dramatically changed how people
interact and connect with each other, both with current and future generations
·
Mobile phones and hand-held wireless devices
allows people to be in instant contact multiple times during the day
·
Attention spans are shorter and people are
accustomed to quick & efficient interactions (get to the point quickly)
·
Instant communication & information sharing
has shortened decision making cycles and the need to meet face-to-face
·
Massive expansion of non-profit organizations
offers many more opportunities to serve without joining a service club
·
Migration patterns show a movement towards large
cities/urban areas
·
People commute long distances and do not work
and sleep in the same area
·
Suburban communities often lack leadership
structures & community focus
·
A culture of bigger and better has created a
massive personal debt burden
·
Few employers are providing the time or money
for service club involvement
These are just a few of the findings, and the implications
are significant. Over the next few
issues of the Kiwanis Insider I will preview some of the things that we are
considering to not only mitigate these issues, but to actually leverage them to
our greatest advantage.
Organizations that choose to bemoan societal changes are often left
behind by those that are proactive and responsive. While it is not easy to be
nimble when you are 94 years old, Kiwanis can take steps to position itself for
the future. Stay tuned for much
more to come….
Posted
Jan 25 2009, 03:37 PM
by
Rob Parker