Member Orientation

• Elements of an Orientation
• Methods of an Orientation
  • Letter From a Former Member
  • Interactions With Board Members
• Fundamentals of an Orientation
• Orientation Topics

Home > Member Orientation > Methods of an Orientation > Interactions With Board Members

Interactions With Board Members

Introducing members to partner site boards

One way to orient new members to a host site is to arrange for the member to interview the site's board members. Such interviews help new members learn about the program, make important connections to community leaders, and introduce themselves to important stakeholders.

Click the play button to see a video sample of one such interview session.

Here are some questions that a new member might want to include in an interview:

• What is the board member's profession and what community activities does he or she participate in?
• What are the individual's board duties and greatest program challenges?
• What are some recommendations for things to see, people to meet, and organizations to join in the community?
• Will the board member provide a list of community contacts?
• What words of wisdom does the board member have for the new VISTA or AmeriCorps member?
• Is there anything the board member would like to know about AmeriCorps or VISTA service?

Another strategy is to have the member make a presentation to the host site board. The Montana Legal Services Association VISTA project includes a clause in its "MOU" (memo of understanding) that requires the partner site to arrange a presentation and other promotional opportunities at least once a quarter.

Check out the actual language used in their agreements.

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