Introduction

THIS DOCUMENT WAS PRODUCED BY THE NEW ENGLAND REGIONAL LEADERSHIP
PROGRAM.  IT IS POSTED BY THE CENTER FOR RURAL STUDIES FOR PUBLIC
USE.  THE CENTER FOR RURAL STUDIES ASSUMES NO RESPONSIBILITY FOR
THE CONTENTS.  FOR MORE INFORMATION, REFER TO THE USERS GUIDE.


        BUILDING THE TEAM THROUGH NEW AND RENEWED MEMBERS

Most groups go through a developmental cycle that filters out those
whose needs and goals are no longer fulfilled by the group.  These
members, and others who leave for other reasons, like moving out of
town, need to be replaced, not only to keep your group viable, but
to add new life and renewed direction.  New members often stimulate
old members as well.  If your group  agrees to recruit new members,
develop a well-thought-out program that will give you the type
members you want: those who know what they're getting into and why.

When you're ready to build your team with new members, several
brainstorming exercises can help you.  The best way to do them is
during a workshop or other designated time so the whole group can
participate.  This way members will be asking thought-provoking
questions of themselves and about their roles so they can plan the
recruiting and orientation that must follow.  Thus it accomplishes
two tasks with one effort.


CREDIT: Robert C. Biagi, Cooperative Extension, University of
Massachusetts, Amherst.

• Lois M. Frey, UVM Extension, RR #4, Box 2298, Montpelier, VT 05602, (802) 223-2389, email: lfrey@sover.net
• "Group Development: Creating Group Effectiveness" by Duane Dale, DFD Associates, 99 Brattle Street, Cambridge, MA 02138-3402 (moving to 764 South East Street, Amherst, MA 01022 after 8/1/98);
• Bob Biagi, 142 Cherry Lane, Amherst, MA 01002 (413) 549-1412;

Comments to: crs@uvm.edu
Reviewed as of 4/20/98