Homeowner associations were fashioned after the villages of an earlier time. Villages were led by a volunteer mayor and council while associations now have their volunteer President and board of directors. The complexion of the village has changed, but the organization is pretty much the same. The biggest challenge is how to get volunteers to serve.

One of the best ways to recruit board and committee members is to have a standing Welcoming Committee to greet all new owners upon move-in. Since moving ranks way up there in life's most stressful experiences, a smiling face at the door can often bring relief. It provides an opportunity for developing new friendships and besides being the neighborly thing to do, there are practical benefits as well.

Orientation: New arrivals are usually disoriented, living out of boxes and not familiar with the neighborhood, its parks, schools, churches, shopping facilities and other basics. The Committee can assist with helpful "insider" information (best shopping values, restaurants, etc.) that will help the newcomer feel at home. On behalf of the association, the Committee can present copies of governing documents, policies, rules and regulations, trash pickup schedules, board and homeowner meeting dates, a list of board members and committee members with phone numbers and other information any well informed resident should know or have readily available.

Interview: There are few opportunities better than move in time to interest a new owner in association business. Many newcomers have a curiosity that can be converted to a commitment to serve. The Welcoming Committee can informally quiz the new arrival about areas of interest as they relate to board and committee duties. This is the time to gain insight into any special training or organizational skills that would be of value to the community.

Polling People have different philosophical reasons for moving into a homeowner association. Some want privacy while others welcome involvement. This is an opportunity to determine whether their expectations are aligned with the reality of association living. For example, one Board President mentioned that many new residents thought he was "the maintenance guy" and constantly badgered him to fix garbage disposals and change light bulbs. Obviously, there is a learning curve about who does what, when and if at all. Uncorrect misinformation leads to disenchantment and disenchantment to hostility... something the community doesn't need. The Welcoming Committee can help get the newcomer off on the right foot by explaining the homeowner association concept. There are even videos available that do the job for them.

Setting the Tone A Welcoming Committee speaks volumes about the Board's desire to connect and get participation from other members. By taking the first step, the message is, "We value and encourage your participation in your community." It is a message that effective leaders deliver consistently and well. Even if the new arrival doesn't choose to participate on the Board or Committee, the public relations helps garner support for the Board that is useful when controversial issues arise.

If your residents are disconnected and apathy abounds, consider the positive influence that a Welcoming Committee can bring to your community. A small investment in time up-front can reap big rewards down the line.

For more information on this subject, see www.Regenesis.net.

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Published: May 12, 1999

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Richard Thompson owns Regenesis, a management consulting company that specializes in condominium and homeowner associations. He is a nationally recognized expert on HOA management issues. Regenesis publishes The Regenesis Report, a monthly newsletter for HOA boards, developers and managers. To subscribe, go to Regenesis.net. He can be contacted by email at .