Top Traits of Successful Patrols
IMBA World Summit 2010
Panelists
• Joe Cross, Big South Fork Mountain Bike Patrol
• Charles Myrick, SORBA CSRA
Group Objectives
• Operate effectively and efficiently
• Interface with other local organizations
• Involve broad spectrum of the community
• Implement sustainable organizational structure
• Leave a legacy
• Have fun!
Partnerships
• Land Agencies/Owners
• User groups– MTB Clubs– Other uses like hiking,
equestrian, motorized
• Event promoters
Organizational Structure
• Put it on paper• Establish minimum basic roles
– Director– Assistant Director
• Scale as necessary• Structure is a means, not an end!
Recruitment
• Collaborate with local club
• Use media when effective– Web– Social media
• Old fashioned posters
• Refine your sales pitch
Trail Ambassadors
• No CPR/First Aid required
• Great way to introduce volunteers to NMBP
• Less expensive membership
• Cool blue jerseys!
Organizing Volunteers
• Land agency expectations– Scheduling needs– Critical trails– Total hours
• Balance flexibility with commitment
• Log hours
Incentives• Encourage participation!
• Determine priorities and reward work– Busy trails– Key land agency partners– Key events, ex: Take a Kid MTB Day
• Outreach to business community
Delegating
• Growth is a good thing!
• Break out specific activities– Events– Training
• Provide additional leadership roles
• Pick the right people
Recruit Leadership
• Build succession into leadership structure
• Training opportunities– Apprentice/shadowing – Introductory leadership roles
• Build a pool of potential leaders
• Transparency
Community Outreach
• Partnership opportunities– Event sponsorship– Equipment– Bike shop participation
• Other community organizations– Scouts– Trips for Kids
Longevity
• Relationship building– Land agencies– Local businesses– MTB clubs
• Opportunities come to
established groups
Questions?