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Optimist International Leadership Development

Club Presidents-ElectSeminar

Part 3

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Delegating CommitteesPresidents Elect

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What is a Committee?

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• A group that will organize and direct talent and energies of Optimists into meaningful activities.

• The Committee is responsible to the Board.• The Committee must submit

recommendations for approval by the Board, or in some instances, to the Club Membership.

What is a Committee?

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What are some of the Committees an Optimist Club

should have?

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Committees of an Optimist Club

• Community Service• Fellowship• Finance• Membership• New Club Building• Public Relations• JOOI Clubs Program

• Publicity• Social Functions• Personal Growth• Program• Bulletin• Fund raising

Standing Committees Other Committees

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Committee Sizeo Ideally, each member should serve on a

Standing Committee and at least one Special (project) Committee each year.

o The size of a Committee should be determined by the Club’s size and the requirements of the assigned activity.

o Effectiveness declines sharply with more than seven members.

o Members may be appointed to more than one committee, but they should not chair more than one committee.

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Committee Selection

• Does the Committee require special knowledge or talent?• What is the member’s record on previous Committees?• Is the member a potential Chair, or a follower?• Will the member take time to serve on the Committee?• Can the member work with people (both the Committee and

the public?)• Will all the appointees work together harmoniously?• Has the member shown interest in the activity?

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Preparation for CommitteesBefore a Committee meets, the President or appropriate Vice President should council the Committee:o Provide necessary information issued by Optimist

International or instruct the Chair where they may gain additional council desired.

o Be sure the Committee’s objection is understood.

o Request the Chair to strive to train a successor.

o Be certain the Committee understands that its basic function is to translate ideas and plans into action.

o Set a schedule for reports and accomplishments.

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Planning a Committee Meeting

Find a convenient place to meet. Decide on a convenient time.

Mail meeting announcement and agenda one week in advance.

A well planned agenda will ensure a productive meeting.

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At the Meetingo Start the meeting on time.o Define Committee’s objectives.o Encourage each member to contribute.o Maintain a positive approach.o Do not rush - it takes time to consider worthwhile

alternatives.o Select the solution nearly acceptable to all.o Divide responsibilities.o Adjourn the meeting on time.

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After the Meeting

• Report progress and recommendations to the Board.

• Keep in touch.

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The Club Meeting (Next)BREAK