Mervin Albert Jr., Chairman
From our modest beginnings in 1882 ... throughout our 140 years of existence, Membership Recruitment has been the vital element of our continued growth and strength. Our Order has grown to become so much more than Fr. McGivney could have imagined back in 1882.Recruitment is a simple process. What have we learned? It is not easy for many of our members to do.
How can we step up to make the difference? Just invite practical Catholic men to join us!
If we are to continue to offer the opportunity of membership to every practical Catholic gentleman, we must be prepared to share the benefit of membership in our Order, at every opportunity. Recruiting new members into our Order is in fact ... a DUTY! You do not have to be a polished recruiter with a prepared marketing slogan or recruiting statement.
Inviting a member of the parish to join is as simple as sharing your personal story. Share why you joined the Knights of Columbus. Share what becoming a member has done for you, your life, and your family. Next, share what your Council is doing to strengthen the parish community as well as how you are supporting your Priest and share a story about the good works being accomplished by the members of the Council.
Another method for recruiting new members is through Church Drives and Recruitment Blitzes. These are designed to optimize the recruiting efforts of a Council by utilizing bulletin notifications and gaining the support of the Parish Priests and the implementation of manpower made up of well-prepared Brother Knights for its efficient and successful operation.
Although a Church Drive can be conducted at any time during the fraternal year, there are specific months and days of obligation which can be utilized for optimal results. The months of October and March are specific months designated by the Supreme Council to hold Church Drives. Proper planning and cooperation for such events are crucial and this can be achieved by practicing our principles of Charity, Unity, and Fraternity.
The Membership Recruitment Team is here to aid you in your recruiting efforts. We are here to aid you in preparing for your recruiting efforts. Do not hesitate to reach out to the members of the Team. Our charge is to ensure you have the tools and resources available to accomplish and achieve your membership growth goals.
There is no secret to inviting men to join our Order and achieving your goals. We must be present, open to talking to everyone, and letting the world know how proud you are to be a Knight of Columbus.
As a Family organization, our wives and family members can be a vital part of our recruitment efforts. Our wives are great at sharing the benefits of membership with more wives who, in turn, encourage their husbands to join. This affords our wives the opportunity to spend more time with their girlfriends while enjoying the fruits of membership too.
Members are joining online in great numbers across the Order. We need to make every effort to contact these candidates promptly. Invite them to participate in your Council’s activities and events. This is an excellent way to introduce them to your members and the good works you are doing.
If you need help, I am only an email (mervalbert@sbcglobal.net) or phone call (713-899-1513) away.