by Traci D'Elia
If you've been attending Saturday rides, you know that we have a strong contingent of regulars, and a regular contingent of new members. Some show up, ride, and enjoy. others have arrived only to jump in with both feet, hungry to help, and do more.
One such example - I was contacted by someone named Marc. I had no idea who this guy was. New, granted, but where did he come from? He was looking to get involved with the volunteer leadership, just as we found ourselves in need of additional help. But he was new.. and I was hesitant. I hadn't even met him yet.
Our Membership applications are cumbersome - I'm sure a few of you have noticed. And there are a hundred and twenty questions that new or curious potential club members will have. So, the leadership team decided that with Lynne's departure we'd split the role into two. Martin Obando would take over the systems maintenance and updates - adding new members and completing their login process. But we needed someone else to help address the multitude of questions. And wouldn't it be great to have more than an automated email to Welcome new members? To have a face, a warm body, a point of contact available to answer those questions?
Enter, and Welcome, Marc Altman.
I knew Marc was eager ~ and motivated. Once I saw his go-to enthusiasm, professionalism, and extroverted nature, I knew he'd be the right fit for membership. We discussed the role, at least the starting point, and he gracefully accepted. He's had similar volunteer experience in the past, and is ready to jump right in.
Marc is now our Membership Liaison, answering questions sent to Members@portlandvelo.net as well as Info@portlandvelo.net. He will also be focusing on the welcoming of new members, club community building fundamental to the club, and assisting with external community relations. I look forward to working with him, to his fresh ideas and a better-than-ever membership team. Marc and Martin will work in tandem to process new members, while Martin and Carlo are looking for software options that will help ease or replace our current, cumbersome systems.
Meanwhile, I'd like to continue to encourage each of you to continue to welcome the newest members as they join our rides. Get to know them, and help them find their niche. If you meet someone that is asking about joining the club, you can answer their questions, and/or direct them to the Members email. Be sure to suggest they utilize PayPal when they join - the quickest method available.
We continue to grow - continue to gather the most amazing people, and run friendly, safe rides. It is an honor to support this club, to watch it grow, and to welcome Marc to the leadership team.