Well then.
First of all, the Underpinner group is NOT public. Members need to be approved first and can be removed too. Khoo started this a long time ago, it didn't get used much until recently.
We can all talk here of course, among PPFA members. I do feel it is important to reach out to non members. Sure, we can ignore them and tell ourselves that 'it doesn't matter what we do'. How can you understand where the PPFA needs to go, if you are not willing to collect information from none members? Sure, there is a lot of mudslinging, I am totally immune to that as I do read between the lines and quite a few answers, both in the group and through PMs made me think.
It is too bad that a few people in that group ruined another perfectly good thread, but it is what happens on every forum. It unfortunately became a discussion about education and I, personally, thought that Dermot had some very interesting things to say. But that was not the original question.
I have heard from quite a few people, privately, who were members, but didn't re-new. I know everyone on here is quick to dismiss what might not seem like a valid reason. That is the kind of attitude that needs to be fought, from within. I hear, too many times, that 'it is what it is'. 'if they can't see it, well, the loss is theirs'.
I am a PPFA member. I will renew year after year from now on, because I do hope this organization will survive, thrive and draw in many more framers. We should NOT be divided, PPFA or non PPFA.
What I have learned from former members: they didn't feel welcome. That was the main reason. They went to a meeting, felt a little lost, didn't know how to jump in, make contacts, left unsatisfied and thought 'never again'.
When I opened my shop (over 6 years ago now), I joined the PPFA as my mentor advised me to. I went to a meeting and my experience was very much like the one described. I felt lost. I didn't know how to approach anyone as I was such a newbie, so found it a bit overwhelming. You have no idea how intimidating a group can be. I didn't feel part of that group.
I didn't re-new.
I became a member once again last year (the year before probably) because I now know so many framers, made quite a few friends and it was fun meeting them face to face. How did that happen? Online. The Grumble, Facebook groups and chats.
Solution: have a table, at the door, with a specific 'new members here' sign. Have a group of 'old timers' ready to guide such new member through the whole night, explaining the procedures. Be a host. Connect them with other people, maybe other new members etc.etc. MAKE them feel welcome.
Another main concern is 'price'. I know everyone here will quickly dismiss that. 'how can someone not be able to afford the $175 annually'. Well, I have been there. Not being able to justify to pay that amount when times were tight enough and I'd rather spend the money elsewhere. What would have helped: a monthly payment plan. I realize that that is a lot more work. However, if a membership is 175, do a monthly payment of $20 for example. It should be not that difficult to set that up through Paypal?
As for 'meetings are too far from my location'. I know many chapters try to offer different locations. Our last one was a 3 hour drive for me. It being winter, having some family obligations as well, made me decide to pass on that one. So I completely understand that concern.
eace:
