We were incredibly successful when we recruited by personal contact. We found Dockmasters at our various marinas were more than pleased to give one of our class flyers to each person or family that docked a vessel at that particular marina.

We always pick up several interested persons at the spring boat show held at the Marriott Tan-Tar-a. Our squadron has a booth on the display floor where we run video tapes and where we can just chat with people visiting the show regarding boating safety.

We advertise each class as much as possible on all radio stations and are able to get both ads and articles in lake area newspapers.

During the first class (Boating Course and/or Boat Smart), I take my USPS Ensign which is attached to its white staff along with one of our window decals and let the class members know how proud we are to be able to fly the USPS colors while we're boating. We've learned here at the Lake of the Ozarks, the water patrol officers treat vessels that fly the USPS Ensign with a great deal more respect, for, after-all, they know we're much safer than average boaters!

I continue with a low key "pep talk" for each of the following class nights. If there is a program scheduled that we are able to invite guests to, and one or more of the class members is showing interest in joining our Squadron, we will invite that person as our guest to the next dinner and/or meeting to "check us out" so to speak and find out first hand just what a FANTASTIC organization we have.

We attempt to schedule two or three six-week Boating Courses, and two or three three-week Boat Smart Courses each year. We also teach the three week course as part of the marine class at the Vocational High School at Camdenton High School.

We average 15 students in every one of our classes and we're finding that approximately one-third become members.

It takes an enthusiastic approach to interest people in joining and it takes a real effort to make all members feel needed, wanted and important after they've joined. We try our best to mix up new and experienced members at each function.

I offered a special musical entertainment treat at our last meeting which received rave reviews from all in attendance - We Want More!

Hope this is what you're looking for. If you need more please contact me.

Cdr Robert C. Johnson, S
Missouri Ozarks Power Squadron
johnson@lakeozark.net