CWRT COUNTING MEMBER SURVEY ANALYSIS

When asked about the number of members in any particular CWRT there may be a wide variation dependent upon the manner in which members are counted. This survey seeks to understand that variation and to assist CWRT leaders as they grapple with this prickly subject. This obviously omits those CWRTs without members.

• For those CWRTs that have formal members, it is important to develop and maintain a satisfactory membership roster. Maintenance should include periodic updates and a continuous circulation to the board.

• Although roster ownership depends upon organizational structure and the CWRT membership records policies, it is important that the responsible person in that position knows and understands board policies, is authorized to offer suggestions for data collection and reporting improvement and is widely known to be the expert.

• It is a CWRT board responsibility to determine if an honorary membership category is approved. If approved, boards should also develop and circulate a policy covering the criteria and If members in that category are counted with regular members.

• Dues payment delinquency is a phenomenon many CWRTs face. Board direction in how those instances should be handled is required. The best policy actually comes from President Lincoln when he said, “Let them up easy. Let them up easy.”

• It is recommended that CWRTs count couples as two people.

• Those CWRTs experiencing negative or stagnant membership growth should first determine if they are at risk of closure. Then, begin mitigation efforts by reviewing their policies and practices in marketing, program and operations, reach out to local museums, veteran groups, etc. to initiate partnerships and seek assistance from others to reverse the trend.