Contact Person: Mary E. Schuman ESP, Alpha Lambda Chapter, Retirees Committee 3834 Wilderness Trail Indianapolis, IN 46237-1308 Presenters: Mary E. Schuman Evelyn Adams Indianapolis, IN Tobinsport, IN
Conference Objective:
Identify ways to prepare for and enjoy a fulfilling retirement.
Abstract:
Evelyn Adams and Mary Schuman were Co-chairs of the ESP Retirees Committee in 1997 when the idea of forming an exclusive group, eventually to be called the Nifty 50's Plus Club, was born. The idea of the organization was to develop closer relationships/friendships with current ESP members who are 50 years of age or older and beginning to think about retirement with those ESP members who have already retired. In addition, this group would serve as a "perk" for those members who felt they were not getting much out of the organization and perhaps were questioning why they should continue their membership.
Evelyn and Mary will discuss the guidelines that were identified for this special group, share questionnaires used to seek ideas from ESP members for activities and seminars to be conducted as well as advice on how many extra meetings, activities, or seminars should be planned each year, and the success of the events planned during the initial year of activities (1998) as well as plans for expanded activities for 1999.
The evaluation following the first year's activities was very positive including suggestions for 1999. Participation for each event has been excellent, ranging from 40-80 ESP members, including many retirees.
One goal identified through the questionnaires was a need to increase communication among retirees. More articles have been submitted to the "Retirees Corner" in the Periscope, the staff newsletter which is published every two weeks from Central Administration. In addition, a retirees e-mail news group has been established with a membership of over 50 on this mail list.
Many other successes have become a reality through planning by the committee and will be shared in this workshop.
This will also be a "how to do it in your chapter" session. The "Nifty 50's Plus group with their variety of educational seminars as well as fun and social activities has indeed enriched our chapter.