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Manage Your Chapter Member Relations Retaining Current Members |
| Retaining members is all about relationships.
Remember how important relationships are when your chapter involves
KDP alumni as speakers, contacts members on your campus for feedback,
or develops a member newsletter. As part of the Society, your chapter
is encouraged to develop strategies to maintain these relationships.
Doing so enhances the impact of your chapter and the Society while
creating methods of supporting your members throughout their careers. “Committed” chapter members are members who will help your chapter meet its goals of impacting education on your campus and in your community. They will actively participate in the activities and programs of the chapter. For most people, commitment to an organization does not result from an invitation to join. It must be developed and cultivated by positive experiences and opportunities offered by the chapter. These benefits and rewards will help members further develop a sense of awareness of the Society’s purpose and provide incentive and motivation to belong. Members who are engaged in their Kappa Delta Pi chapter see the value of their membership and continue to renew and participate each year. To be considered Active Members of KDP and the chapter, individuals must pay their national and local dues each year. Go to the KDP Web Portal to get a current list of Active and Inactive Members. Remind members to renew in a timely manner to keep them connected to the chapter and continuing to receive benefits. Chapters receive an incentive for having a certain percentage of their members renew their membership each year. |
Good Retention Programs… |
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| Many chapters use a PIIP (Post-Initiation Incentive Program) to allow for flexibility while maintaining a minimum expectation of participation. Tailor your program to meet your chapter’s needs. A good retention program should accomplish the following: |
| • | Communicate to members that Kappa Delta Pi membership is a recognition that extends beyond honor only and, with active participation, can enhance one’s career in education. It can be much more than a line on a résumé. |
| • | Cultivate in members a desire to contribute to the field of education and the betterment of society. Becoming/being a teacher is much more than lesson plans or discipline policies. It is a way of living and a way of thinking. |
| • | Recognize the efforts and accomplishments of members who strive to uphold the Society’s Ideals—Fidelity to Humanity, Science, Service, and Toil. |
| • | Create a network of future educators on your campus. |
| • | Educate members about the Society on an international level. Kappa Delta Pi membership is more than membership in the local chapter. |
| • | Provide enough ongoing events and opportunities to keep members excited and interested in chapter activities but not so many that members become discouraged from joining or participating. It is important to meet individual needs, but not overextend members. Meetings should be an effective combination of quality professional development, community service, and fun. |
