How to Run a Sorority or Fraternity

Running a sorority of fraternity is one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences members of greek life can experience. The key to maintaining a successful sorority or fraternity is to handle business first and foremost, and to reward your organization after taking care of sorority / fraternity matters.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. (Recruitment.) Recruitment is the most important part of running a sorority / fraternity. Without new recruits, Greek organizations will go extinct. There are many methods of recruiting, but the one thing they have in common involves being social. Your sorority / fraternity needs to be approachable and down to earth, otherwise people won't want to join.

2. (Fundraising.) Another problem many sororities and fraternities encounter is funding. The best way to raise money is to think smart. If your sorority / fraternity has a lot of members, look for one-time jobs. You can also sell plasma as a way to rake in money. Or throw a party and charge at the door. The best ways to fundraise require the least amount of physical labor and the most amount of thought.

3. (Community Service.) Community service projects are a big part of running a sorority or fraternity . Most Greek organizations have some form of national community service requirement, so you might as well make the best of it. Pick service projects that are hands-on and unique for the best results. I used to hate community service before I join my fraternity. But community service with your fraternity or sorority is usually a lot more fun and doesn't even feel like work.

4. (Campus involvement.) One way to gain visibility for your sorority / fraternity is to be actively involved in your campus. Throw GOOD events on campus, not just talent pageants every other semester. Encourage members of your sorority / fraternity to join the e-board of your school's Greek Senate. Infiltrate the Student Government. Take over your school!

5. (Party hard!) Yes, partying hard is a facet of running a great sorority or fraternity! For one, parties act as stress relief and rewards for all the members of your organization. Parties are also ways to remain relevant among your peers. Having a reputation for being the sorority / fraternity that throws the best parties can help with recruitment and such. They can also help with fundraising. Just don't break any laws or do anything too stupid.

Tips & Warnings

• Organization is the key to running an effective sorority / fraternity. Schedule regular meetings, run those meetings using Robert's Rule of Order (link is in Resources), and above all else: COMMUNICATE!

Resources

• Robert's Rule of Order

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on 7/29/2009 Good tips to run a sorority or fraternity