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Last updated
26 July 2000
"... and then, like a miracle, it all comes together, and it really is a surprise, and that's part of the fun." Hobart Brown Founder, Kinetic Sculpture Race
One of the most unique events I have had the opportunity to attend was the Kinetic Sculpture Race in Eureka, California. Not only was it fun, it provided eye opening views on the involvement and management of a large and diverse group of volunteers. The principles guiding the Kinetic Sculpture race apply to all types of associations and other volunteer efforts.
First - What is the Kinetic Sculpture Race? To quote the Founder it is " a Glorious convergence of Human, Machine, and the Forces of Nature all delicately balanced on a razor's edge of questionable mental health." Or another definition also by the Founder, "Where Human Powered Vehicle Racing meets High Art, Low Comedy & Mediocre Awards." In other words it is a three day race from Arcata to Ferndale California in human powered sculptures.
The success of the Race in gaining workers and supporters lies in it's philosophy of openness, acceptance, initiative, understated but solid organization, and last but just as important, fun. Ideas that express this philosophy include:
> Knowing that people want to get involved in something but they may be hesitant because they don't want to do something that is dull, boring, and a dead end.
> Knowing the unique benefits of being involved such as finding themselves, maybe for the first time, on TV, in the newspaper, or speaking publicly.
> Knowing there is always latent talent available and when you tap in to that and provide opportunities you may help make dreams come true.
> Knowing once people get a clear picture of the race concept, whoever they are, they want to be involved.
> Knowing that thanking people for their efforts pays off.
> Knowing that the race, although different from year to year always lives up to expectations.
> Knowing that everybody wins in this adventure!
These same concepts can help you grow a dedicated, involved, and active membership. Take a look at your association, the committee structure, the events and activities, and the efforts at recruiting new members and recruiting current members for elected office.
What is the philosophy your association portrays? Is service on a committee a dead end or is it a step to other leadership positions? Are members hesitant because the association keeps doing the same old thing? Are there opportunities for members to be in the spotlight in a meaningful way? Do you know what latent talents your members may have and how to access them in a way beneficial to the member and the association?
Does your association have a well defined mission and clear goals known by the entire membership who are dedicated to seeing them become reality? Do the member benefits, the services the association provides, and all it's activities and events live up to expectations? Are your recognitions of member contributions, achievements, and involvement meaningful and appropriate for the specific individual and situation? When the association develops a new program, holds an event, or adds a new service, does everyone benefit in some way?
To paraphrase a comment by Dr. Laurence Peter, author of The Peter Principle, when asked to comment on the Kinetic Sculpture Race: 'Hobart takes average lazy couch potatoes, give them an impossible task, puts them through hell, and brings them out the other side ecstatic and covered with glory.'
"For the Glory" is the motto of the Kinetic Sculpture Race. Your role as an association leader is to develop that sense of accomplishment and enthusiasm in your association's membership. The challenge is in your hands! Meet the challenge and not only may you be surprised, you will probably have a lot of fun along the way.
The Kinetic Sculpture Race has a great web site http://www.humguide.com/kinetic/ that includes a wonderful set of documents about developing and managing the race. It is an invaluable resource of successful ideas for associations and other membership groups.
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