Salem, Oregon's
Running & Walking Club Site
Home of
Willamette Valley Road Runners (WVRR)
www.WVRoadrunners.org.

Where is everyone..........??

     The Willamette Valley Striders have had numerous events this year where we have tried to obtain volunteers from our membership. These events include our Highway 22 cleanup, Gallagher Fitness Resources Women's Clinic, Salem Art Fair 5K and Summer in the City 5K and Dog Jog. In each case the turnout was low and it was the same club members showing up each time. I'm sure there are many reasons for not volunteering ::

     Someone else will do it - I'm sure we all agree if we all use this reasoning nobody will show up.
     I would not know what to do - in most cases the volunteer jobs are simple and there are other club members to give guidance.
     I'm too busy - pretty valid in our club's case. Most of our members are married, with children and are at the height of their careers, plus they have running/walking training programs and races to squeeze in as well. Maybe you can't volunteer every time but I bet you can at least once. For instance, it's better to volunteer at Zena than to run it (trust me - I've done both). If you're injured then you have great volunteer potential.

     Our club benefits greatly from volunteers, for instance, due to our volunteering at the first Women's Clinic organized by Susan Gallagher, GFR our club received 49 new members and a membership check for $980. Our efforts help promote running/walking in the local community - in accordance with our mission statement. It gives our club greater exposure within the community, attracting new members and making it easier to get help and consideration from other local organizations. It gives a chance to give back to a sport that has given us so much. So please, pitch in and give a hand when you are able. Some upcoming events needing your assistance are the 2nd Women's Clinic (in progress), Hwy 22 cleanup (Oct 17th) and Dream of Roses Women's 10K (Nov 1st).

     Oops - I'm not done yet. In this newsletter you will find a member survey. This survey will provide the Strider Board members with valuable direction in determining what you, the club members want for our club. Please don't set this survey aside - it will take 5 mins of your time to fill out. Do it now and mail it. Thanks for listening.

     Occasional volunteer (especially at Zena)..............Mick Evans