How to form a new club in LW

GRF RECREATION

by Kathy Thayer

recreation manager

With COVID-19 (hopefully) in the rear-view mirror, GRF clubs are back in full swing with nearly all meeting in person in the clubhouses. The Recreation Department is now reassessing reservations because many clubs did not resume after the COVID-related pause. The club roster has dropped to about 150 organizations from an all-time high of 270.

How to Start a Club

Part of the attrition has to do with policy changes requiring clubs to combine or disband, rather than have duplicates.

There is now an opportunity for authorized residents to form new clubs a s space has now become available. Residents who have a great idea for a new club can request an application from the Recreation Office. Staff will present it at a Recreation Committee meeting for approval.

Here are the steps to forming a club:

• Find at least 10 fellow residents who would like to join. There is no required minimum, but too low a number reduces approval chances as competition for space can be brisk.

• Residents are welcome to write an article for the LW Weekly to generate interest.

• Residents should make sure a similar club does not exist to preclude duplications. The Recreation Department can provide information on this.

• Residents should pick up a New Club Packet or call the Recreation Department to have one emailed. This will help determine if your idea is viable and walk you through the process.

• A minimum of three people are required to be officers to lead the club.

• Club founders should familiarize themselves with GRF Recreation policies, especially “Membership of Clubs and Facilities Reservations” (available under the GRF tab on lwsb.com).

• Currently, there is a moratorium on new religious organizations as there are 20 active groups registered.