Back in January, we sent out a poll to all current and many former ECV members. The poll asked questions about many facets of the club.
The ECV Officers are going over the poll results to look into ways to better serve ECV members. Here are some of the things we know we need to work on:
Group Rides. ECV Members want rides for a wide range of abilities and schedules. We're in the midst of putting the ride schedule together and hope to be able to offer good solid rides that all ECV members can enjoy.
Communication. Members want to see more web updates and to be told about ECV activities well in advance. Katy Schutz, an ECV member who frequents Riverside Cycles in Newburyport has offered to help with communication. We are also looking into ways to improve interaction between ECV members. At the General Meeting, I outlined some of the technical and practical challenges for creating and maintaining a useful ECV forum. We have not shelved the idea but are looking into other ways to enhance member-to-member communication without the shortcomings associated with our previous forum (mostly issues of inappropriate postings from outside the club and lots of maintenance).
Racing. Most poll respondents indicated that they have raced for ECV at one time or another. While ECV is not a race club, we feel strongly that fostering a sense of camaraderie with fellow teammates is important. ECV recognizes that a group of people racing in blue & white increases the club's visibility and brings new blood into the club. We're looking at past race reimbursement programs and will announce and something prior to race season (which is fast approaching).
Inclusiveness. ECV members have many interests and varied involvement in club activities. It's our job to make sure all members feel welcome and have equal access to ECV benefits. Our VP Chris McKernan is outlining an innovative program that all ECV members can take part in. We'll be announcing this cool new program shortly.
Many thanks to everyone who took the time to respond!
Paul Boudreau
President
Essex County Velo
paul@ecvcycling.org