Be sure to welcome everyone warmly. Make clear that Affirmation is a safe place, where people are free to share their experiences and feelings without judgment or criticism. Remind everyone that we respect their confidentiality and expect those who attend to do the same. You should also have introductions. This can be done by asking people to tell a little about themselves, e.g., how they heard of Affirmation or what they hope to gain from participating.
Introductions can be fun too.
Ask people to relate something funny that happened to them recently, or what their most favorite vacation was. Be creative the point is to get people to talk a little and break the ice. Once people are a little more relaxed, announce the topic and hand out copies of the Charter and Bylaws. The emphasis should be on questions and discussion. Before concluding, ask for volunteers to help with positions, until you can have an election.