February 2024

WINTER ACTIVITIES... from page 18.

Getting commitments to come to events can be an issue many communities face. Many Lifestyle Directors have found a resident who has a deposit down for an event is more likely to attend even when it is refunded at the door. A free event with a refundable five-dollar deposit is a com mon tactic to help residents remember to attend. If dollars are a little more plentiful than a door prize or refreshments it can always help encourage those riding the fence to come over on the colder and rainier days. It is the inevitable truth that despite one’s best efforts, Mother Nature may cause an event or two to be canceled due to ice, snow, or unexpected scheduled cancelations. It is essential to communicate with residents promptly and plan an alternative date if at all possible. Be sure to determine your vendor’s weather policies before signing a contract. The winter months may be a challenge when planning your next activity but hopefully, a few new ideas above can spur the cogs of imagination and the smiles of homeowners all over the state. n

fee to attend an event. A well thought out plan can achieve most of these activities at a reasonable per-person cost of just a few dollars. Suppose numbers have dropped a little at your last couple of activities. In that case, a friendly phone call to some of the

hunkered-down non-snowbirds or a personalized letter in the mail can change the tone of an event that might not otherwise be finding enough residents coming through the doors. Resident involvement in event planning can create excitement and spread the news through word of mouth.

“Resident involvement in event planning can create excitement and spread the news through word of mouth."

If you are hearing a lack of interest never fear breaking out an online poll to survey your community for different activities.

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FEBRUARY 2024