VMAP at the Valley Level—Omaha, Nebraska
With all that VMAP requires of a Valley, it is easy to become overwhelmed. In his letter for the Jan. 2015 Valley of Omaha newsletter, Ill. Curtis Edic, 33°, General Secretary, summarizes how VMAP came about and enthusiastically outlines how the Valley proposes to divide up and manage VMAP-related tasks:
"The Supreme Council held three Grand Commander’s workshops last year. We sent our Masters and Senior Wardens, Fellows, Personal Representative and Development Director, as well as myself, to discuss successful programs in the Valleys across the Southern Jurisdiction. From this information the Supreme Council condensed it into VMAP (Valley Membership Achievement Project). VMAP is a series of objectives from recruitment, ritual reunions and activities to retention. It is a guideline for Valleys to increase activities and interest in their Valleys. Proudly, I can say Omaha Valley has done several of the suggestions, but as I told our Officers, there is no old idea if it can be renewed with different members and enthusiasm. That was what I asked the Officers to do, set the example for the membership with enthusiastic programs. We will want you to participate as well. VMAP, in my opinion, can be the guideline for several years to come.
"Each body has picked different areas to work on. The Lodge of Perfection will work on new (and old) member engagement; Rose Croix will enhance the Remembrance and Renewal and Feast of Tishri Ceremonies; Council will coordinate the Outings and outside activities while setting example for engagement of the Officers at each station in the Lodge; and Consistory will become “Ambassadors” to the Masonic Lodges. But remember, this will not be contained in the Body of the Lodges, you as a member, must be prepared to be asked to help. Organizations as we are, I believe, thrive better when we get more involved. So don’t try to look the other way!
"One way you can help immediately is when you see a member with a plastic name tag; walk up to him and introduce yourself. We offer him a permanent badge if he shows for three Lodge events, hopefully enough time to become acquainted. Please help, make him welcome."
Perhaps your Valley already has determined how to divide up VMAP responsibilities? We would like to know. Please send an email to
vmap@scottishrite.org or share your knowledge on the
Freemason Network* (FMN). Please see below for more information on how to be part of the FMN.
"VMAP Minute"—Delinquent Members
The "VMAP Minute" in Ep. 4 of
The Tyler's Place—online now—tackles the question of how to handle the issue of delinquent members realistically and effectively (VMAP Area #9, Member Retention).
The "VMAP Minute" is a regular feature segment of
The Tyler’s Place podcast. Each VMAP minute covers one of the 10 VMAP areas, along with other practical applications that support VMAP initiatives.
You can download and listen to
The Tyler's Place at
http://scottishrite.org/about/media-publications/tylers-place/.
Participation Is Growing!
To date,
123 Valleys have demonstrated their commitment to improve the fraternal experience of its members through enhanced recruitment, new member engagement, degree proficiency, education, philanthropy, and administration.
To see the up-to-date list of participating Valleys click
here.
Find More VMAP Resources on the Freemason Network.*
How to use Freemason Network:
