Parents Club Overview
Early in the history of DeMolay, the order provided a way for parents of members to become associated with the organization. The interest of the parents in the well-being of their sons inspired the idea of organizing mothers into an active unit. Through the years, the Parents groups have proved to be a source of strength for the Chapters and a real addition to DeMolay's adult leadership team.
Today, Parents Clubs combine the energies and talents of both mothers and fathers, as well as guardians and step-parents. Working together, these parents can be tremendous help to the Advisory Council and to the Chapter itself.
The purposes of parents groups are to cooperate with and assist the Advisory Council of the Chapter in promoting the growth of the Chapter and its members, and to serve the Chapter and strengthen the interest of each member in DeMolay.
Each club is subject to the authority of the Advisory Council. The clubs should understand this important policy. The harmonious relationship between the Chapter and the Parents groups depends on the club operating under this condition.
The clubs' contact with the Chapter will be between the Chairman and the President of the club. The activities of a club should be defined and mutually agreed upon by the Advisory Council.
Parents Clubs can, and do, furnish many things for the Chapters which the Chapter would not be able to provide for itself. Some clubs raise money to send DeMolays to state conclaves, Leadership Training Conferences and similar activities. They can be instrumental in finding new members for Chapters, encouraging attendance and seeing that appropriate entertainment is provided after Chapter meetings.
Parents Clubs are usually happy to arrange food and refreshments after Chapter meetings, as well as for social activities. These social gatherings have a great influence on the Chapter members and their families. Often, these activities provide opportunities for members to bring their friends into the DeMolay circle of friendship.
Before taking any steps to organize a Parents Club, organizers must secure the approval of the Advisory Council. Mothers, fathers, relatives, step-parents or guardians of DeMolays are eligible to join. Some Chapters have Adult Leadership Teams that combine much of what Advisory Councils and Parents Clubs do.
|
