Homeowner associations were fashioned after the villages of an earlier time where leadership consisted of a volunteer mayor and council. HOAs today have a similar volunteer board of directors. The complexion of the village has changed, but the organization is pretty much the same. The biggest challenge is how to get volunteers to serve.
One of the best ways to recruit volunteers is to have a standing Welcoming Committee to greet new owners upon move-in. Since moving ranks way up there in life's most stressful experiences, a smiling face at the door can often bring relief. It provides an opportunity for developing new friendships and besides being the neighborly thing to do, there are practical benefits as well.
The Orientation. New arrivals are usually disoriented, living out of boxes and not familiar with the neighborhood, parks, schools, churches, shopping facilities and other basics. The committee can assist with helpful "insider" information (best shopping values, restaurants, etc.) that will help the newcomer feel at home. The committee can present copies of governing documents, policies, rules and regulations, trash pickup schedules, board and homeowner meeting dates, a list of board members and committee members with phone numbers and other information any well informed resident should know or have readily available.
The Interview. There are few opportunities better than move in time to interest a new owner in HOA business. Many newcomers have a curiosity that can be converted to a commitment to serve. The Welcoming Committee can informally quiz the new arrival about areas of interest as they relate to board and committee duties. This is the time to gain insight into any special training or organizational skills that would be of value to the community.
The Survey. People have different philosophical reasons for moving into a homeowner association. Some want privacy while others welcome involvement. This is an opportunity to determine their expectations. For example, one board president complainted that many new owners thought he was "the maintenance guy" and badgered him to fix garbage disposals and change light bulbs. Obviously, there is a learning curve about who does what, when and if at all. Incorrect misinformation leads to disenchantment and disenchantment to hostility, something the HOA doesn't need. The Welcoming Committee can help get the newcomer off on the right foot by explaining the homeowner association concept. There are even videos available that do the job for them.
Setting the Tone. A Welcoming Committee can speak volumes about the board's desire to connect and get participation from other members. By taking the first step, the message is, "We value and encourage your participation in your community." It is a message that effective leaders deliver consistently. Even if the new arrival doesn't choose to participate on the board or a committee, the public relations helps garner support for the board that is useful when controversial issues arise.
If your residents are disconnected and apathy abounds, consider the positive influence that a Welcoming Committee can lend to your homeowner association. A small investment in time can reap big rewards down line.
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