How do you stay in touch with others? Maybe you prefer social media, like Facebook or LinkedIn. Perhaps email is your preference. Many connect through text messages. For some, like me, a phone call is top choice.  

The need for a personal connection still exists. Nothing can brighten your day like a call from an old friend. Sharing a memory or exchanging a laugh with someone lifts the spirits. Personal communication builds strong families and good friends and creates successful institutions and cohesive organizations.

Within MOAA chapters, personal interaction among members provides opportunities to build friendships, exchange ideas, and share experiences.

[LEARN MORE: MOAA Chapters] 

I recently returned from my annual MOAA council leadership training/convention. You feel the connection of shared experiences and our shared purpose at such events, but you feel more: It’s the hugs exchanged, the appreciation of each member and their contributions, and the connection to the MOAA leaders and staff who attend. It was an experience that energizes and renews your commitment.

Your council and chapter create a cohesive network for the work of MOAA. They also provide a setting for friendships to flourish. 

This shared affinity should be practiced in your chapter. The chaplain and the surviving spouse liaison serve as personal outreach to each member. Their role is very important.

[RELATED: Husband’s Early Death Leads MOAA Member to Serve Other Surviving Spouses]

A chapter member who lives alone and has no local family needs a chapter friend or neighbor to exchange a greeting with each day. It could be as simple as texting “Good morning” and the recipient sending a thumbs-up response. The greeter and recipient should share contact information for their next of kin in the event that the greeting is not returned.

I know of one chapter that has created such a program, called Buddy Check. This might be a good idea to discuss at your next meeting. 

A chapter should also have a list of emergency contacts for its members in case a member becomes ill at a meeting. I personally have experienced two situations where that information would have been helpful.

Make caring for and connecting with each other part of your mission to never stop serving.