Engage

Engagement is about living a life of collaboration, not isolation. More than ever, adults with disabilities are becoming active in their communities. Aktion Club helps. Members develop skills for building coalitions that address community needs. They also enhance their ability to create strong connections through conversation.

HOW WI LL YOU KNOW WHETHER MEMBERS OF YOUR AK TION CLUB ARE READY TO ENGAGE? YOU MIGHT NOTI CE THESE BEHAVIORS:

• Members’ eagerness to interact with each other and build relationships.
• Members’ improvement at being approachable.
• Members communicating more ef fectively in personal conversations and
  small groups.
• Group improvement in working out conflicts, with minimal help from advisors.
• Members’ confidence when engaging with people outside of the club, including agency and community leaders.

HOW CAN YOU SUPPORT MEMBERS’ COURAGE TO ENGAGE?

• Help members recruit peers to help serve, whether for one project or by joining the club.
• Encourage club of ficers to include fellowship time at every meeting, using “icebreaker” activities to promote interaction.
• Set aside time for education on core skills such as proper introductions, active listening and social interactions.
• Pay attention and show appreciation to members who exhibit excellence in social skills.
• Provide opportunities for club members to practice social skills by interacting with other adults.