Presidential Perspective

I believe with unwavering confidence that we are on the crest of a great wave of new members joining the Grange. This is not just a hope; it is a certainty rooted in the growing interest we are seeing across communities nationwide. People are searching for a place where they can belong, where their voices matter, where they can make a difference, where they can connect with others who share their values – values like integrity, hard work, and the importance of community – and where they can be a part of something bigger than themselves. They’re looking for a community that values shared purpose over individual gain, where differences are respected, and where working together for the common good is the norm, not the exception.

In today’s world, it’s hard to ignore the deepening divides, the constant unrest, and the growing inability to find common ground. Everywhere we turn, we see evidence of a society increasingly fractured by disagreements, where compromise is often seen as a sign of weakness rather than strength. This climate of division leaves many people feeling isolated, unheard, and disconnected from the communities around them. In the midst of this division, I feel that there’s a strong desire, a yearning even, for something different.

The Grange is that place.

For 157 years, the Grange has been a beacon of unity and community. It was built on the belief that through mutual respect, understanding, and cooperation, we can achieve more together than we ever could alone. In a world that often seems to pull us apart, the Grange brings us together—across generations, backgrounds, and beliefs.

To fully embrace this opportunity, I want to emphasize the importance of every one of us being fully prepared to welcome these new members into the Grange. Each new member represents an opportunity to strengthen our Grange family, share our values, and extend the impact of our mission. We need to ensure that our halls are open, our hearts are warm, and our commitment to our mission is steadfast. It is up to us to be ready to guide them, support them, and grow together. Every new member also brings fresh energy and perspectives, and it is our responsibility to harness that energy to propel us forward. Let’s prepare ourselves for this exciting time, knowing that our best days are ahead.

Preparation is key. When we welcome new members, we’re not just adding to our numbers; we’re inviting individuals into a community where they can grow, contribute, and help shape the future of our organization. It is our responsibility to ensure they feel valued, informed, and equipped to engage from day one.

To do this, we must all be ready –both practically and personally. Our meetings should be organized, our processes clear, and our resources accessible. But beyond that, we must be prepared to mentor, to listen, and to build genuine connections. It’s these relationships that turn new members into active participants and lifelong Grangers.

Remember, the strength of the Grange lies not in a select few but in the collective power of all our members. Every new member is a chance to renew our purpose and share our knowledge freely. Let’s be ready to embrace them with open arms, ensuring that they feel they belong to something meaningful and larger than themselves.

As we look to the future, we have an opportunity to invite even more people into the Grange. Let’s open our doors wider, reach out further, and let people know that there is a place where they can find what they’re looking for—a place where they can belong, make a difference, and connect with others who believe in the power of community. Let’s work together to be Grange Strong!