Volunteers Vital to Success
Matthew Weaver of the Oklahoma Main Street Program was in Durant recently to provide training at the request of Durant Main Street.  Board members and new volunteers attended. The value of volunteers was the topic of discussion.
Main Street is a volunteer-based organization, and therefore, the success of the program depends on the efforts of volunteers. The Oklahoma Main Street program recognizes this and assists the local organization with training.
Durant Main Street has been recognized by Oklahoma Main Street for requiring all volunteers to be trained. This requirement is stated in the organization's bylaws. The importance of training relates to gaining an understanding of the entire organization and how different elements work together for a common goal.
The session reviewed the program's ability to attract, develop, train, retain, and recognize volunteers. Donna Dow, Durant Main Street Program Manager, commented that showing appreciation to volunteers is extremely important. "We also believe matching the person with an assignment they are comfortable with is essential. We want to retain happy volunteers who believe in our Downtown."  Both issues were emphasized in the presentation.

Q: What does a Main Street Program volunteer do?

A: Many important things, such as:

• Locate historic photographs
• Design brochures
• Make copies
• Staple, sort and group items
• Run errands
• Pick up trash
• Make fliers
• File
• Inflate balloons
• Fold and address mail and newsletters
• Color maps
• Bake
• Update lists and other databases
• Tabulate surveys
• Analyze data
• Prepare for events
• Clean following an event
• Serve as a board member
• Serve on a committee
• Plan events
• Cook hotdogs and hamburgers
• Paint
• Make signs
• Hand out candy
• Clip articles and other information
• Assist with fundraising
• Have fun!

If these and other projects and activities sound like a rewarding challenge which will help your Main Street Program grow and prosper, which in turn will help our downtown area and our entire business community grow and prosper, we'd like to here from you.

Call Donna Dow today at 924-1550. Or, drop by our office, located at 323 West Main.

You can also email us.