By John McKenna, F401980
October 2016
What is the recipe for fun, relaxation, and camaraderie within an FMCA chapter? It’s easy to define. Variety is the one key that will keep existing and new members participating rally after rally. Mix it up! Plan new events! Liven up old events! Make sure all members have FUN.
Rallies, which often are monthly chapter get-togethers at RV parks or resorts, can be fun and interesting. However, they also can be predictable and boring if the theme never changes. For example, you pack up; drive to the site; bring a potluck dish; have a large dinner; talk about sports, weather, current events, and motorhome issues; maybe make a side trip to a local restaurant or event; and then you pack up and head home. Nothing wrong with that, but could it be more fresh and interesting? Sure, with a bit of planning and some imagination.
Our Erie Shores chapter recently held its monthly rally at a member’s vacation cabin, situated on 70 acres. It started as a suggestion. But after some discussion, planning, input from all of our members, and promotion by the chapter officers, it turned into a real event, and one of our best rallies.
It featured a pig roast, a skeet-shooting contest, a fishing competition, and four-wheeler rides on the property. The goal was for all members to have fun.
Look to your members for suggestions to help keep rallies fresh and fun. Oh yeah, don’t forget marshmallows, hot dogs, and the telling of tall tales around campfires.
Add some spark to your rallies!