The following suggestions are supported by both the Association and Foundation Presidents. Each Chapter is unique, whether by geographic locale and/or membership. What works for one might not work for another. One aspect is clear: Good leadership = success.
Suggestions for Chapter Managment
The Charter of all Chapters indicates they will be guided by the By-Laws of the United States Marine Corps Combat Correspondents Association which states its purposes are charitable, educational, historical and patriotic and to support the U. S. Marine Corps. With the advent of the USMCCCA Foundation, the charitable aspects have shifted from Association to Foundation.
In accordance with these purposes, it seems each Chapter should:
• Hold regular meetings at least once each quarter. Where geographic conditions preclude, schedule at least one annual meeting to accommodate those members living away from Chapter headquarters cities.
• Have a meaningful agenda that supports the by-laws of the Association.
• Elect Chapter Officers at least once every two years.
• Assure that chapter members are also members of the National Association.
Chapters would seem to be most functional and well attended by members if:
• There is frequent communication between the President of the Chapter and members.
• There are meaningful goals for Chapters to achieve.
• There are established standing committees to assist the President.
Suggested goals are:
• Charitable – Schedule fund raising events to contribute monies to the Foundation for further assistance to worthy charities.
• Educational – raise funds to support Foundation scholarship grants to worthy recipients.
• Establish a mentor program to assist active duty Combat Correspondents.
• Become a resource for programs such as Marines for Life and Wounded Warrior Mentor Programs.
• Patriotic – Show the colors at all Chapter functions. Pledge allegiance to the flag and play the National Anthem and Marines Hymn when appropriate.
• Historical – Support Association programs to gather, chronicle and maintain documentation of the historical achievements of Combat Correspondents.
