The planning and organization of the opening program is almost as important as the program itself. Hopefully your opening program will lead your chapter down the road to an exciting program year. Remember returning members may not have seen each other all summer. Food is generally a good attraction at an opening program. Barbeques, ice cream parties, pizza parties and deli dinners usually draw a crowd.
Dances can be risky but sometimes work.
Movies and speakers are less preferred because they limit the interaction between group members. Pay careful attention to the dynamics in the group from the start. Make sure that everyone is approached individually and made to feel welcome. Your officers or core group should mingle and help introduce new members. Ice breakers, circle games, tv game shows or many other social programs can help create a positive group feeling.