Picnic and ‘Samsara’ Doco at Moonlight Cinema, Centennial Park - Sydney Vegan Club Meetup Group, Sydney, Australia
Sandhill running (or walking) - V Star Sydney Meetup Group
Interview: Marty, Organzier of the Ventura County Vegans
Stepping up as Organizer of an existing Meetup
The Ventura County Vegans Meetup Group is no spring chicken: founded in 2007, it’s still going strong under the leadership of Marty Styles, who stepped up as Organizer in March of 2012. Marty took a time out to speak with us about that transition, coordinating with members, and of course, potlucks.
—
What was the first Meetup you organized? Were you nervous beforehand?
It was a potluck and general Meetup called “Monthly Potluck & Meetup the new Organizer, Marty Styles.” I was a little nervous although the excitement of doing what I love to do always gets me through the time leading up to getting in front of the group and talking.
How did you feel afterwards?
I felt 10 feet tall because everyone was so nice. The former Organizer was able to be there so it was a very comfortable transition.
What do you think is the most challenging thing about taking over the Organizer role from another person?
Not knowing how the other Members would feel about how I run the group. But they have responded very well and I feel that they now know that I am truly passionate about building and growing our community.
What has been the biggest challenge you’ve faced as a new Organizer?
Time is the only challenge that I have right now. If I had the time I would be able to do more outreach and networking with similar groups.
—
Hollynn dishes on dining out as Meetup’s Food & Drink Community Specialist.
You can find the full spread of Food & Drink Meetup news here.
Food & Drink Meetups: Tips and Tricks for Organizers
Do you have a million questions about your Food & Drink Meetup Group? (Am I doing the right thing? Are my Members interested?) Never fear: Marty is here! The Organizer of the Ventura County Vegans dishes out his top tips for food and drink Organizers:
- Connect with the active members to see how they might like to see the group run
- If you do a good job of making the events interesting they will come
- Be prepared for anything; 40 people may RSVP and 15 will show up
- Don’t get discouraged!
Hollynn dishes on dining out as Meetup’s Food & Drink Community Specialist. Get the full scoop on Food & Drink Meetups here.
I knew they were out there.
