Feeding Success

Plan Social Events around Food

Many clubs already host social events, but adding a food component can make them even more appealing to members. Consider organising cooking classes, cooking competitions, or food-related outings such as farmer's market visits or restaurant tours. These events can provide opportunities for members to bond over shared interests, try new foods, and learn about culinary traditions and techniques.

Incoporate Food into Club Activities

Depending on the type of club, you can find creative ways to incorporate food into your regular activities. For example, a sports club might have a team meal after a game, a bowling club could offer a barefoot bowls class with a barbecue lunch, while an RSL club could have themed snacks or drinks that tie in with major club milestones. By adding a food component, you can make your activities more fun and engaging for members.

Use Food as a Way to Fundraise

Many clubs and organisations rely on fundraising to support their activities and social engagement initiatives. Food-related fundraisers can be particularly effective, as people are often willing to pay for delicious food for a good cause. Consider hosting a food sale that includes your local businesses or small businesses that have homemade products such as jams or baked goods to increase foot traffic into the club, as well as support your community.

Highlight Food-related Volunteers Opportunities

Clubs have a social and community service component, and food-related volunteer opportunities can be a great way to get members involved. Consider organising a food drive or encouraging staff to volunteer at a soup kitchen or food bank. These activities can not only provide a valuable service to the community but also help members learn about food systems and food security.

Educate Members about Food-related Issues

Food is a complex and multifaceted topic, and there is always more to learn. Clubs and organisations can use food-related topics as a way to educate members and create discussions around important issues such as food justice, sustainability and health. Consider hosting speakers or panel discussions, organising cooking classes, or providing resources and information about food-related topics.
Incorporating food into your club strategy can have many benefits, from strengthening community bonds to raising awareness about important issues. By getting creative and thinking outside the box, you can find ways to make food a fun and engaging part of your club's activities and initiatives.

The Club Education Institute offers the Governance Refresher Course that encourages thinking outside the box for creative strategy solutions and improved board member performance. For more information, please email ClubsNSW Learning & Development Manager Reyna Mendes.