Area Coordinator - First Steps

Words of Wisdom

You do not need to build a community by yourself.

Area Coordinators succeed by helping members connect with each other and with the larger Local Group.

What Success Looks Like

• Members know there is someone local they can contact
• New members receive a local welcome
• Local activities occur when there is interest
• Communication flows between members and leadership

Best Practices

• Start small
• Focus on relationships
• Be visible and approachable
• Connect people with each other

Common Pitfalls

• Feeling responsible for every activity
• Trying to do everything yourself
• Waiting for the perfect event
• Losing touch with Local Group leadership

Purpose

Help new Area Coordinators get started and understand where to focus their efforts.

Your First Goal

Your role is simple: Help members in your area feel connected.

You do not need to organize large events, solve every problem, or contact every member immediately.

Focus on helping members know there is someone local who is available to help them connect.

If you have questions, contact your Membership Officer, Local Secretary, or other Local Group leaders.

First Steps

Learn About Your Area

Become familiar with:

• The communities you serve
• Existing local activities
• Members who are already active
• Travel considerations and geographic challenges

Working Within Your Local Group

Area Coordinator responsibilities vary significantly between Local Groups.

In some groups, Area Coordinators primarily welcome members and help facilitate connections, serving as the primary point of contact for a geographic area. In others, they are organize regular local activities

Talk with your Membership Officer and Local Secretary to understand:

• How your Local Group uses Area Coordinators
• Confirm your point of contact (often the Membership Officer)
• How Area Coordinators communicate with leadership
• What resources, templates, and support are available
• How often local activities are typically offered

Learn How to Reach Members

Before reaching out, familiarize yourself with the communication methods your Local Group uses.

This may include:

• Email
• Social media groups
• Online discussion platforms
• Newsletters
• Local Group websites

See National Tools and Resources for more information.

Make First Contact

A simple introduction can help members know there is someone local they can contact.

Keep your first outreach friendly and low-pressure. Focus on introducing yourself and letting members know how to learn about local activities.

See Area Coordinator First Contact for guidance and sample messages.

Next Steps

Learn more about the role:

• Area Coordinator Responsibilities
• Welcoming New Members
• Planning Your First Activity
• Supporting Remote Members
• Membership Officer - Working with Area Coordinators