We belong to a den that has other parents that do not assist or jump in with ideas/suggestions. Any suggestions for motivating parents to help or ways to structure a den meeting that will persuade others to participate?
The secret to getting and keeping volunteers has 3 parts: ask, help, thank.
Ask them. Different folks will have different levels of confidence and willingness. Be specific: "Could you help by picking up some zip lock bags and ingredients to make trail mix for the food and nutrition requirement next Tuesday?"
Help them succeed. "Here in the Wolf book or program helps is a shopping list. You can substitute if you need to. We can reimburse up to $10 from the den dues."
Recognize and thank them. "Hey boys, let's give (Mr/Ms) a cub cheer for all the work they did for you."
Also, use the Fast Start training so the parents know what the program is about. The reason people don't volunteer is because they don't want to fail and look foolish. Be specific and commit to help them succeed. As they build confidence in themselves and you, you'll have plenty of volunteers.
Have you tried making some assignments for an activity?
I've experienced that if you just sit back and wait for someone to volunteer it usually doesn't happen.
On the other hand, if you call up a few parents and ask for their help with something specific, most will respond positively. Often it's just a fear that they don't know what to do.
Of course you'll always have a few parents who believe that BSA stands for Baby Sitters of America. In those situations it's sometimes necessary to explain the program to the parents......
The secret to getting and keeping volunteers has 3 parts: ask, help, thank.
Also, use the Fast Start training so the parents know what the program is about. The reason people don't volunteer is because they don't want to fail and look foolish. Be specific and commit to help them succeed. As they build confidence in themselves and you, you'll have plenty of volunteers.
Have you tried making some assignments for an activity?
I've experienced that if you just sit back and wait for someone to volunteer it usually doesn't happen.
On the other hand, if you call up a few parents and ask for their help with something specific, most will respond positively. Often it's just a fear that they don't know what to do.
Of course you'll always have a few parents who believe that BSA stands for Baby Sitters of America. In those situations it's sometimes necessary to explain the program to the parents......
Just an opinion from someone who's been there.