Why Join a Service Organization?

What is a service organization?  Why should you join?  Wait, aren't those the groups that my dad or grandpa belong to?  They just drive those funny cars during parades and sell Tootsie Rolls at stop lights right?  I know they raise money for something but what?  These are some of the same questions I had until I learned more about them.

What is a service organization?  They are typically non profit or volunteer dependant organizations consisting of people who want to make a difference in their communities. They are funded by membership dues, fundraisers, donations, grants and sales of merchandise. They are very diverse groups ranging from a civic group to an animal rescue to assisting low income families or providing activities for the elderly.

Where does this money go?  Depending on the group the money could go many places.  A majority of it goes directly to other charities or non profit to help those in need.  Some goes towards creating future programs for fund raising or community education.  Some goes towards paying fees to be involved in local events like Heritage Days, Arts and Apples and regional events as well.  Some goes towards paying the bills such as website, rent and creation of merchandise.

Who are these organizations?  Rochester Area Neighborhood House, Rochester Junior Woman's Club, Rochester Area Youth Assistance, CORE, Rochester Avon Historical Society, Dinosaur Hill Nature Preserve, Jaycees, The Rainbow Connection, Assistance League, Leader Dogs for the Blind, Freedom Road Transportation, Rochester Lions Club, The Questers Stoney Creek, Gifts for all God's Children, Rochester Rotary Club, Kiwanis International, Crittenton Foundation, MISSAR Oaks Chapter, Older Persons' Commission (OPC), Five Star Connection, Oakland Township Historical Society, Rochester/Auburn Hills Community Connection, Rochester Regional Chamber of Commerce and many more. 

Aren't these for men only?  No.  While some are exclusively for men or women, most are for both.

Don't you have to be old to join?  No.  Some of the organizations are geared towards people who are near or past retirement age but many, while composed of mostly older people, are open to all ages. Quite often the empty nester's and the retired have more time to contribute while the younger folks are busy with raising families and working.  There are many ways to be a part of these groups even if you don't have a ton of free time.

What are the benefits of joining a service organization?  They are many!  It seems that today we are so busy between work, school, family, church, after school activities, television, exercise, shopping, ect. that it is hard to find the time for anything else, much less being involved in your own community.  Despite living in such a populated area, we often don't get to know most of the people living around us.  Service organizations have their social benefits where you get to meet and work with people you may have never normally run into from all walks of life.  Another benefit is that you get to help those around you.  It may be as simple as serving a meal, manning a booth, a conversation or paying your yearly dues.  These activities enrich the lives of all involved.

Please take a few minutes and look at the attached PDF.  It is a great resource for the Rochester area compiled by Leslie Mack of the Rochester Avon Historical Society.  On Wednesday the 18th, the Rochester Avon Historical Society hosted the Inter-Service Club Dinner at the Great Oaks Country Club.  This is an annual dinner that celebrates the work service organizations do and gives members a chance to socialize with other groups.  The attendees sent in information about their organizations which make up the document.  Maybe you will see one that would be a good fit for you.  You too can help make a difference.