The main purpose of Greeks conducting a pledging process is so new members get a chance to showcase their interest and appreciation for their organization. Greek organizations must be careful about hazing and make sure they do not cross the line into what is inappropriate. Pledging practices should focus on bonding and educating new members.
Spaghetti Dinner
Arrange for the current members to cook a spaghetti dinner for the pledges. This option gives both new and established members a chance to serve each other. As the hosts, the current members will be able to take new ones on a tour of the facility, discuss historical information about the organization and demonstrate reasons why they should join their group. For the newcomers, it's an opportunity to get to know their predecessors.
Trivia Night
Divide the groups in two and challenge each group to a trivia game that asks information on the history of the organization, details on the school and local hot spots. Arrange for a few prizes to be awarded to the team with the most points. This could be be as simple as grocery store gift cards. Assign the losing team the task of cleaning up the kitchen together or working on a house project such as painting.
Host a Social
Host a social event such as a garage sale or ice cream social where teams get together to plan and execute the event. Assign someone to be responsible for organizing various aspects of the event such as publicity, products inventory and finances. Remember to emphasize teamwork when delegating duties and to create a lasting experience for the pledges involved.
Community Events
Events are great ways to get groups of people together to work on a common cause. Challenge new pledges to secure volunteer work with a charitable communitywide event. Check with your local chamber of commerce or tourist bureau for an event listing where pledges may be able to serve as assistants on a large-scale event. Whether it's assisting with building a new house, holding signs for car washes or managing a children's area at a festival, community events help add service hours, community goodwill and bonding.
Tags: current members, event such, members chance