He waited for the right moment, as the boss reviewed paperwork and sipped his coffee.  He knew this would be a sure way to get on the good side of the boss.  “I have been watching all the folks come and go from your office, and I hear that is because you are chairing a campaign for a university.”  Not that he really understood what that meant.  “That is really impressive; it must be exciting to lead that effort.”

The boss took sort of a second look, and then set aside his paperwork and turned toward his young employee.  Its working!! – He thought, I have scored!!  Then the unexpected came as the boss spoke.  “I did not know you were interested in service – so few young people are.  So tell me about what you are doing?”  Sadly for our young friend there are not a lot of places to at 30,000 feet and this was not what he expected. 

“Well I don’t have any money like you so I am not in a position to help others.”  He stammered thinking it a great cover.  And then it happened, unexpected and unplanned – it was not a raise, but the boss did change his life.  The Boss leaned over, looked straight into our young man’s eyes and said “Money can be made, but time — time is the most precious gift you can give- because you cannot make more of it.  Since you are interested in service – let’s find you an opportunity.”  

That conversation lead to a first real volunteer role for our young man, followed by his first leadership role, and today he watches as his children take up service as a part of their lives.  And though he has given money within his ability, nothing has ever replaced the feeling provided by a gift of time.  And he has never forgotten the unexpected gift from his Boss –a purpose that has lasted a lifetime. 

It is the season of giving and most of us are wrapped up in writing or reading wish lists.  But I wanted to take a moment to share my story.  It is why it is my great pleasure and privilege to work for people who make service a part of their lives.  As Sertomans, you give the greatest gift that can be shared – not only do you provide service; you provide opportunities for others to find fulfillment through service.  From all of us at Sertoma Headquarters, thank you – and the very best of the holiday season to you and yours. 

Merry Christmas
Steven Murphy
Executive Director

Within our lives, our clubs, and Sertoma we have clutter that has accumulated during the years. One example is how holiday decorations seem to multiply in the attic. The number and size of boxes seem to increase each year. As we sort the decorations to trim the tree, we set aside boxes with decorations from years past. Some are scraps and bits from homemade items, others are faded and stained bulbs from our first years, and some look brand new. Those usually fall under the category of “what were we thinking.”   

But, even though we know most of these will never trim the tree or deck the hall, there they remain. What we need to do is bless and release these items. It will not diminish the memories, and it will open up space in our lives (not to mention the attic). Like so many things, it is difficult to let go. So we carry it around, not realizing that it keeps us from moving on, from seeing new opportunities. But there is great power and potential in the ability to bless and release.

It is a concept as important to Sertoma as to your household.  Look at the accumulated programs, traditions, even the people around you, and consider if it is time to bless and release. Yes, even people might need to be released from our lives. We have all experienced the members who do nothing but complain, never step up to do the work, or never have a positive idea. There are those individuals who seem to thrive on confrontation as a means to an end, or worse, some sort of sport. We have become so focused on “numbers of members” that it is hard to recall: Sertoma is about service, not headcounts. And how much more attractive would we be to new members if they found Sertoma a place of positive energy, shared values, and personal respect?

Take a deep breath! This is not a charge to go start “releasing” members, but it is an example of how bless and release is an important concept. It might be old programs or sponsorships that need blessing; it might be meeting times or committee structures. But the release will allow us to take advantage of opportunity. Because if we don’t let something go, at some point we have too many boxes of decorations we don’t use and no place for new ones.

Yours in Service
Steven Murphy
Executive Director

This year, 16 service club organizations spent the weekend discussing the issues we all face, with the support and insight from a number of excellent trainers and speakers.  We were challenged to consider what our “one thing” truly is.  What is the most important thing we do?  What is the one thing we do best? 

As I work with the Board to define a plan for our 2^nd Century of Service, these have become critical questions.  So I have been thinking a lot about the question of the “one thing.”  It is not an easy question, during 100 years of service Sertoma has grown and expanded in so many ways that defining a single vision or focus is a challenge. 

Toward that end, we have recently been deeply involved in planning the new convention programming for leadership development. But the need for a defined and shared focus for the entire organization has become clear during this process.  That work by the Board has me and staff considering in our role – what would be our “one thing.” At the top of the list was to provide the very best support, training and materials possible for our members.  But how do we provide the best support for all our members if we don’t at some level share a focus? 

I would not expect my jeweler to help me with a car problem, and I really don’t want my mechanic working on my creaky shoulder joint.  If we are truly to provide the best support, we need to focus on what our members need.  But to do that, there needs to be a shared focus among all members, which in turn will provide a reference for the training, materials and programs we develop. 

This is not simple, but our ability to assure a 2^nd Century of Service, build a brand, and grow this great organization will be based on what we share, not what makes us different.  Your Sertoma Board is doing extraordinary work that will provide a plan for Sertoma and an example for the leadership of every club.  I am excited to be part of this effort.  Along with the rest of the staff, I invite every club and member to join this effort to launch a 2^nd Century of Sertoma Service at our convention in April 2012.   

Yours in Service

Steven Murphy
Executive Director

In the Fall (at least for those in the Midwest) it tends to be a season of defense. We clean away all the dead from our yards; we secure all the outdoor stuff, winterize the cars and boats, and stock up for ice storms. In the Spring we reverse the process – but it is in expectation rather than defense. The yard is planted and tended, we cleanup and set up our outdoor stuff, the lake toys are prepared and stock up for barbeques.

As I look around Sertoma, I find myself in a quandary about what season it might be. In some clubs I see the signs of fall. Members seem to be in a defensive mood – trying to preserve and prepare for a long winter. Not hard to understand as we work through difficult economic times. We have seen a shift in society that makes our traditions and structures less attractive to younger people, and none of us seem to be getting any younger.

On the other hand in looking at those same conditions, other clubs seem to be preparing for Spring. Clubs are showing a renewed focus on mission and Sertoma service. They are trying out new structures and ways to engage members of the community. A bit of Spring cleaning and some less useful items are gone and we spruce up others that can still be put to good use. The world around those clubs has not changed, but they have changed to enter a season of new growth.

It reminds me of the question –“Is the glass half full or half empty?” Well that depends, “Are you pouring water out, or pouring water into the glass?” As we celebrate our 100th Anniversary, now is time to be preparing for spring, to start pouring some water back into the glass.

As the Thanksgiving holiday approaches, it is a wonderful time to reflect on how much Sertoma has brought into our lives, and those who benefit from Sertoma service. It is also a perfect time to consider how many more people that could truly benefit from being part Sertoma service in our community in the coming year. May you and yours enjoy the best of the holiday – and may we share the blessing of being “Sertoma” with others in the year to come.

Yours in Service
Steven Murphy
Executive Director

In nearly every case, turnarounds were built on an organization defining a single point of focus on what it could do best. This became the only priority and resulted in shedding years of accumulated products, services, structures, and yes, some current employees and customers. The idea was elegant in its simplicity – define what you can do best and work to do that one thing better than anyone else. Such shifts caused everyone in the process to step back – to learn or relearn the nuts and bolts of what this effort would require.

Sertoma and each of its clubs can learn from these examples and step back to evaluate if we have a clear focus/purpose, if we are committed to being the best in our efforts, and if we are prepared with the skills to manage the nuts and bolts of our efforts. This is the major focus of what the Sertoma board and staff are doing this year in preparation for the start of a 2nd Century of Sertoma Service. It is not easy, it can be tedious, and it will generate every range of emotion possible. But without it there is no future.

At headquarters we see the importance of this issue of nuts and bolts every day. We help Club Officers that do not understand how a club operates as a not-for-profit, or a tax exempt charity. This results in problems with the IRS, the State, and staying in good standing. We see Clubs that are suddenly torn apart when members do not have a strong sense of purpose or direction.

As one CEO shared, the biggest issue his organization faced was what was “known and believed.” The belief that you already know the answer prevents any hope of finding the best solution. We need to all step back and learn the nuts and bolts of being a service club in this century. How do we create a shared purpose and mission? How do we operate the business of community organization? How do we develop leaders and engage people to support our efforts?

The good news is you don’t have to do this alone. Sertoma is here with resources and support for every club. But it means nothing without your commitment. It only takes one leader to start a turnaround. Demand (or be) an active liaison for your club. Make an investment to get leadership training. Be a leader who is more interested in what you can learn and ask, than in what you believe and know.

Steven Murphy
Executive Director
Sertoma

Our first tale began with the question, “what is working or not in Sertoma?” During the lively discussion that followed, one member shared a story of how it used to be.
This member told the tale of when, as a new member, shortly after being inducted, he was called by his Club Secretary and told to pull out his GEM book. The Secretary wanted to know which of the requirements was first on his list, and when he planned to address the various steps. There were Board meetings to attend, other clubs to visit, and of course a member to recruit. It gave him a great start and made him feel part of the club. “Why,” he asked, “don’t we do this anymore?”

My only response was, “Good question.” But the reality is that the GEM program is still supported by Sertoma, and was never removed. So his real question was, why did his club stop using the program as a means to engage new members?  I don’t know if he has found the answer to that question yet, but his tale did make me think about how we engage and set expectations for new members. Have we just stopped using what works, or do we need new ways to get our members off to a great start?

The second tale began on another day, as a club discussed its sponsorships and membership. This club President announced they had turned away several potential members, as they were at capacity (their membership is capped at 60.) The stunned silence in the room was overshadowed by the almost casual statement they limit the membership, and turn away new members. This club had clearly set expectations and had engaged its members – as it was not only retaining them, but was attracting others who want to join. Is this just the result of an attitude, the result of action, or both?

Here is what I have learned from these two tales. They tell me we need to re-examine the real expectations of being a Sertoman. They tell me we need to evaluate whether we have, and are using, effective strategies to engage people in Sertoma service.  People need to have a clear understanding of the expectations and support they will get as volunteers. Our efforts must align with peoples’ values and desires, and people must understand the why and how of our efforts. If not, then we will not recruit or retain new members and volunteers. These are tales that should make us ponder: is our future being defined by the change that happens to us – or the changes we make? My sense is that setting expectations and strategies for engagement will be a focus of training at the April convention.

Steven Murphy
Executive Director

Recently I had an opportunity to watch one of the Masters of the Craft demonstrate the process first hand. Our techniques were similar but the outcome was very different. Other than a couple of “short cuts” the only major difference appeared to be his saw.

I have bought a few good saws over time but the cost for this particular saw was closer to a car payment than a saw. But if I continued to do what I always had, with the same tools I owned – I was likely to get the same result. So I took a deep breath, made a leap of faith and bought the saw of a Master.

In a short time I was producing row after row of perfect saw kerfs and better joints. The outcome of years of frustration changed because of an investment – even if it felt like “too much money”.

I know that for many of our members the registration fee for the 2012 Convention has caused some sticker shock. And much like my saw experience the question has been “why does it cost so much?” I have posted a breakdown of the registration fee on the website for those that want to see the numbers. But like my saw, the issue is not the cost but rather, the issue is the value of the investment.

In past years we hosted conventions that wound up serving individuals who had the means and desire to celebrate and participate in Sertoma at a national level. Now, and in the future, conventions will be hosted to serve the greater good of the entire organization.

We have changed the convention to focus on club leadership development, providing tools and services that will make a difference at the community level. Our intent is to attract convention attendance by clubs or individuals who want to invest in their leadership.

Much like my new saw, we look at the investment in the Sertoma convention as an investment meant to provide a very different outcome from the past. But, can you afford it?

In my shop, I was working harder and not getting the results I needed, and in truth, beginning to think I should consider settling for less. I was not willing to settle for less and I believe that most Sertomans feel the same about their clubs and their service to the community. The convention is an opportunity to invest in new ideas, energy and support for the work of your club. It may require some sacrifice among the club and members. But, if this investment leads to new activities, more revenue and new people – how can you afford to miss it?

I know times are difficult and I know for Sertoma it seems like a lot of money. I also know that dozens of members are working hard to make this new convention something of new and real value.
Yes, this year’s convention registration is $125 more than last year’s. But the value of the education and training we have planned will create lasting value for you as a member and for your club. I hope you will see, as I do, that investing in the right tools can make all the difference.

Steven Murphy
Executive Director
Sertoma

The fact is my daughter is not raising her son the same way we raised her. Still we see many of the values and outcomes that were the foundation of her young life and ours. Combined, his upbringing will prepare my grandson for a future yet defined, and thankfully not for a world that no longer exists.

It is difficult to face facts that define a loss or a condition we do not desire. Hard truths can make us question who we are and what we can do. But it is our belief in future possibilities that keeps us moving forward.

In looking at our Sertoma Family, consider these Facts, Truths, and Beliefs:

Fact – there are fewer service clubs and service club members than in the past

Truth –now, more than ever society needs individuals to come together and strengthen communities

Belief –the future needs of communities can benefit from the knowledge and experience of service clubs and service club members

Fact – service clubs have not changed much in the past 100 years, relying on structures and traditions dating back to the time of the Titanic.

Truth — the changes in society and technology render the traditions and structures of service clubs anachronistic

Belief — the future of service to communities by service clubs will be the result of changes in how it provides that service

The future will be defined by our actions. We can stand resolutely and be washed away by the tide of change, or catch the rising tide of change and move forward into a 2nd Century of Service.

Steven Murphy
Executive Director
Sertoma

How do our clubs stack up to Mother Nature?

First, do we know what we are trying to grow (do we have a clear mission)? Are we able to generate the revenue that sustains us? Do we have leadership that helps us come together, focused on common objectives and goals? And finally, can we engage people who want to give of both their time and talent? If not, what can we do?  We might consider a bit of pruning. Over the years, Mission Activities can branch out and become a bit overgrown. It is one of the reasons Sertoma has moved to a primary focus on hearing health. Even though it has required some pruning, we see new growth with great potential starting to appear. 

What about a bit of fertilizer, and loosing up that compacted soil? Sertoma has invested in new leadership development tools and services to inject some new energy, and to help turn the soil – providing new ways for us to support our mission.  How is the water supply? Water delivery is not free, and it is something you will have to work for. Sertoma is developing a new event and new ideas to help you access “other people’s money,” but it is up to us to make it happen.  Now all we need is some sunlight and energy to bring it together.

People have a lot of options when being asked to support needs in their community. Would they prefer to pour their light on barren soil? Or a weed choked or overgrown garden? Or upon the well tended and nurtured?  In the coming weeks we will be sharing more details on the website and in our publications about new programs and activities to help grow Sertoma. Let’s start with a little “Mother Nature” inspection – so we can focus on those key ingredients we need to get Sertoma growing.

Steven Murphy
Executive Director

We endeavor to make a difference; that the world will both need and deny our efforts.

Even if true victory is rare, still we must face each new challenge. Sometimes we face those challenges with success and that success provides the motivation to prepare for the next challenge.

Sometimes defeat does not provide us with rest or resources needed to continue on but does provide the knowledge we need to adapt and to grow. So in success or defeat, we either move forward or we fail – and failure is not an option!

Each of us have experienced success or failure in many ways – in raising our children, in building a career, and in helping make life better for others through service. Such work is not for the faint of heart or weak willed. Society will always create a variety of obstructions for us to navigate. Today we see a weak economy, failures of leadership and so many overwhelmed by anger or depression.

Why do we keep moving? Because we believe that failure is not an option, and as long as we are trying, we have not failed. Neither defeat nor success results in being well rested. Making a real difference has a price. Just recall the faces of those who battled at Ground Zero or work to rebuild after a natural disaster. Along the way to victory, we can expect to be tired, frustrated, and angry.

So where does one find the energy to move forward? At times, we need to step back, take a good look around and see what we must do to prepare for that next step. We need to look around and find others who also believe failure is not an option. We must reach within ourselves to recall what is truly important; for there you can always find the energy to move forward.

I visit that place often when weary and facing hard choices. What obstacles drive you to that place? And what is it you find once there? It is important to know, for in that place we find what we must do, and why we must do it. Then we can help ourselves and each other assure that failure is not an option?

Steven Murphy
Executive Director,
Sertoma