We need more manpower. Krouse, who is the president of the local Jaycees, and her husband, a former president, aren t sure why low membership has been a problem, but Lisa Krouse suspects it might have something to do with an image the organization has been trying to rid itself of. For a long time, many people considered the group to be an elite or social organization more interested in throwing parties and fanfare than helping those in need, she said. We want people to know we are a family organization dedicated to helping others. Hectic schedules might also keep some people away, said Krouse, who, with her husband, owns Professional Training Services, a health and safety training agency.
Life is hectic now, but there are still children out there who aren t getting help.
Krouse said she and Paul must often sacrifice to participate in the organization-sponsored activities, but it s worth it. Most people still get paid if they are at work or not or they can at least make up the time they miss from work, she said. And some people, she said, just might not know who the Jaycees are, or what they are about. Some are married and some are single. The organization is seeking more men and women ages 21 to 39 to join.