We welcome anyone who is interested in starting a new group to have a go, so here are some basic points that should help get you started:
- Firstly decide what the group is going to be about and write a short description.
- Chat to the Groups Co-ordinator who will guide you through creating a short advert for the newsletter and members morning meetings.
- Once you have some interest, arrange a meeting with the others to discuss what they would like to see and do with the group.
- You also need to discuss if the group will meet weekly, monthly or even every other month. There are no set rules for this – it’s up to you.
- Now it’s time to let the Group Venue Organisers know that you plan to start a new group. If you need a venue they will book this for you. They will also integrate your group into the main program and let you know what subs to collect.
- Let them know when you would prefer to meet and if you have a specific venue in mind. If it’s a private address then that gives you more options. You could even rotate the venue around different members’ houses.
- You can then decide between you who will do the basic tasks such as;
- Communications within the group
- Checking members in at each meeting and collecting and paying in any subs.
- The ethos of the U3A is ‘shared learning’ or ‘you teach me/I’ll teach you’. Members can be encouraged to take on topics and research them before presenting to the group.
- Always feel free to contact the Groups Co-ordinator for a chat.