homeowners
association is probably one of the biggest challenges faced by any homeowners
association. An even more difficult challenge can be getting owners to actually
serve on the board of directors.
When you
think about it, it is really indicative of our society as a whole. Just look
at the general apathy and consistently low voter turnouts for local and national
elections. Unfortunately, the best way to bring owners out of the woodwork and
get them involved is to have something go wrong, really wrong.
Actually,
experience has shown that the worse the situation, the more people you will find
that will suddenly want to get involved in the association's affairs. This, of
course, is not the way you would want to get your membership involved; not to
mention that involvement due to a crisis usually doesn't last much longer than
the crisis itself.
So, how
do we get owners involved on a positive note, and how do we get them to agree
to serve on the board? There are a few methods that can help and all of them
can be communicated through your association's newsletter.
First, people
need to be reminded that their home is usually the biggest financial investment
of their life. Certainly an investment of such magnitude, and the very roof over
your head, is worthy of devoting a few hours a month to preserve and protect.
Along
the same line, although somewhat less of a positive approach, would involve explaining
the challenges and potential liabilities associated with living in a community
association and how the board can only survive through the talents and dedication
of its members. Such considerations might well inspire off-site members to consider
devoting time to the preservation of their investment.
Community
involvement should also be based on fun. Consider holding various community events
throughout the year. Have a summer barbecue or other holiday events. If you
have recreational facilities, consider regular tournaments, such as tennis or
swimming.
Get creative.
Let's face it, people do what they enjoy; and if you provide it, they will come.
This will eventually promote greater participation.
