Today’s Downsizer-Dispatch . . .
“If you build it, they will come.” This was the key phrase of the movie “Field of Dreams.” And I can say the same to you. “If you build it, they will come.” If you start an RTBA MeetUp Group enthusiastic new supporters will come to you.
Our “Field of Dreams” has 1,000 or more DC Downsizers descending on Capitol Hill to meet with every Congressional office. You don’t have to be one of them, but you can help find those who will go. We launched our MeetUp groups yesterday to make this happen. We’re pleased to report that we already have four groups with six members. That’s right, half the new groups already have two new members.
But that’s not all . . .
10 other people have said they want to come to a group in their area if someone starts one. That means, if you start a group, someone may already be waiting to come and join you.
There are some common concerns about starting a group. Let me address a few of these quickly.
1) I’m too busy. Mondays are bad for me.
A: You can choose whatever night is best for you. MeetUp.com lets you choose when you want to hold your meeting. This can be casual and fun. You’ll make new friends.
2) I wouldn’t know how to run a meeting.
A: All you have to do is socialize with the people who come to your meetings, tell them what we’re doing, and give them handouts. That’s it. It’s as easy as sitting at a bar, eating at a restaurant, or drinking a beer on a couch at a party. These are skills everyone has!
3) MeetUp.com charges for their service.
A: Yes, a mere $12 for a great service, and you can pass the hat to pay the bill. MeetUp.com will tell all the other MeetUp groups in your area about your new RTBA MeetUp group. They’ll give you tools to communicate with people who are interested in coming to your meetings. Everyone can toss in a couple of bucks per month and it’s paid for.
4) I don’t know where to hold an event.
A: Do it at the bar or restaurant closest to your home or business. It’s that easy.
I’m following my own advice. I started one of the first four groups. And guess what? I already have someone signed up! I don’t know him, but I can’t wait to meet him. I filled out the form at the MeetUp page, then came back and filled in the form at DownsizeDC.org so they can publicize my group. It took about 10 minutes. We’re meeting at my favorite, inexpensive Mexican restaurant (this gives me an excuse to go there). I’m excited about this. I think it’s going to be fun.
Why don’t you start one in your area? Remember, if you build it, they will come. The instructions are here.
Jim Babka
President
DownsizeDC.org, Inc.S