Clubs are a good way to bring people together over a common cause, while also enabling members to educate others. Starting a club at your school can help engage fellow students and even the greater community!
Starting a new club can vary by school, but the general outline is the same:
- Clearly identify your cause
Set a strong foundation for the club by establishing your purpose, values, and mission. Organizations often use this type of outline to quickly inform others about their mission, and it also helps those in the organization already to remember why they work so hard!
- Set goals and intentions
Using this Planning Your Project Worksheet, outline your club’s general goals. The worksheet can also be used down the road to plan for smaller projects or events that your new club wants to host. Using this worksheet can help keep you on track and moving toward a successful club or event. Some things you might want to consider include when and how often you are going to meet, how much funding you will need, ways to raise money, and what kinds of activities you’ll have.
- Find other students to join the club
Spread the word! Talk to friends, make announcements, post flyers, or put an ad in the school newspaper! These are all ways to let your fellow schoolmates know about your new club. Be sure to welcome all interested parties who want to participate, and remember that everyone can contribute to the club meaningfully!
- Find a sponsor
Approach a teacher, coach, or someone from your school administration and ask if they’d be willing to advise your new club. It is helpful to have a sponsor/supervisor who is familiar with the cause, but an adult who is enthusiastic and willing to help the club thrive is great, too!
- Hold an inaugural meeting
Make sure that your first meeting is informational and team-building. The first meeting is a great time to establish the club’s purpose, values, and mission (which can always be amended later, if necessary!).
- Establish structure within your club early on
Your club members should determine what type of structure your club will adopt and then vote to elect executive positions such as President, Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer. A regimented structure helps keep the club organized and efficient. Here is an example club structure.
- Stay motivated!
Starting and maintaining a club may not be easy, but it’s worth the work! Sustained effort and continued passion will result in a feeling of pride for yourself, the club, and the cause you’re helping.