what would YOU do??.....

[hbrogan57]

So, there is a "riding group" in my area that is a rather large National organization. No, not the Hells Angels. I have been a member of this National group (not this chapter) since early in 2000.

Here's my dilemma. I have been on a couple of rides and have been to some of their meetings. What I have noticed is that whenever I have posted an upcoming event I receive a couple of responses telling me that they won't be able to make it. Then, when I do get to the event, not ONE of this group has bothered to show up.

The problem is that, at the meetings, the one thing that keeps coming up is the lack of exposure and no name recognition. So, while I am at these events I bring up the name. And it's usually met with a dumbfounded look and a "who's that" comment. I tried to explain to these folks that to GET your name out there and gain a little respect you HAVE to go to various events. This was met with "Well, we have put on events and no one from other groups show up"...... I have tried to explain that you can't expect anyone to show if you aren't going to THEIR events.

I have posted numerous events on their various forum and facebook pages. True enough that these have been Bike shows. And I can certainly understand that a lot of people don't want to sit around on a nice day just to "show off" their bikes. They would rather be out riding. But I fail to see why absolutely NONE of this group has even bothered to simply stop by and say a quick "hi" either before heading out or when returning.

I am wondering if I should contact the National powers-that-be and make them aware of the situation or if I should just blow these folks off and continue on my merry way..........it's tough as MOST of the other chapters actually get involved in local happenings. I sure hate to see this group just vanish from here.

 

[rmrc51]

Harry,

By your description, it seems obvious that they just don't want to be bothered. You are clearly an active person who enjoys going to various events. You mentioned that you've stated your case numerous times as far as this club/chapter getting more exposure. There's nothing else you can do. You know that old saying; "You can lead a horse to water but you can't make him drink"? If you have a sense of loyalty to this group, stay with them and maybe, in time, things might change. But with your active and outgoing style, I'd also look for another group that mirrors (as close as possible) your expectations.

 

[bayoudave]

hbrogan57 as president of the local CMA chapter I understand what you are saying. However, if you walk away you are doing the same thing you are accusing them of. Think about it. If you really want to see the chapter continue and become a part of the community you need to set an example. You need to keep inviting them but most of all you need to go. Then at the next meeting let them know what you did and how much you enjoyed it. If you will be faithful in doing your part I'll bet sooner or later you'll find another member of two that will be willing to join you. Then perhaps the chapter will begin to realize that they need to step up. In the meantime, you need to continue as you are led and just enjoy all the bike shows and other events and proudly represent your chapter.

 

[hbrogan57]

While I certainly agree with what you said. It's also known that once a sinking ship reaches a certain point there's no saving it.

hbrogan57 as president of the local CMA chapter I understand what you are saying. However, if you walk away you are doing the same thing you are accusing them of. Think about it. If you really want to see the chapter continue and become a part of the community you need to set an example. You need to keep inviting them but most of all you need to go. Then at the next meeting let them know what you did and how much you enjoyed it. If you will be faithful in doing your part I'll bet sooner or later you'll find another member of two that will be willing to join you. Then perhaps the chapter will begin to realize that they need to step up. In the meantime, you need to continue as you are led and just enjoy all the bike shows and other events and proudly represent your chapter.

 

[Ozarkryder]

Sounds like the people you are now dealing with are a meeting group, not a riding group. I'd bet most of them know Roberts Rules of Order better than the owner's manual that came with their bike.
If you want to see the chapter, or whatever they call the local group, change, you may have to get a bunch of like minded folks to join and change it from the inside. Get yourself and some people interested in doing more than meeting elected to the offices of the group. Some of the meeting only crowd may fall away, but if you promote your events and attend other groups events the word will get out that this is a vibrant chapter.
Or accept that these folks are happy with the way things are, let them do what they want to do and go your own way.