On Oct 25, 2006, we initiate the topic "Should we register SilverHairsClub?" You can follow up the comments here: https://silverhairsclub.com/2006/10/402
I have given this some thought and discussion to the feedback. In short, I prefer to to keep the SHC as it is now.
As observed by members, there are advantages and benefits in having SilverHairsClub as a registered club in Singapore. A registered club enhances recognition with other organisations, meets some of the concerns of public gatherings and enables SHC to collect funds to support membership and activities.
The SilverHairsClub is intended to be platform for over 45s to meet new and more friends. This is its objective. As a result, many SilverHairs have met new SilverHairs, and have their own new-found activities. SilverHairs initiate their own sub-groups eg in cycling, nature walks, travelling, games, karaoke, IT training and online selling.
SHC is intended to prepare SilverHairs into the many years ahead. Finding good friends is important. We must find the environment to meet our social needs. SilverHairs have many needs. As such, we support healthy and active activities, hobbies, discussion groups on retirement living, small business groups and continued work to supplement our SilverHairs expenses. SilverHairs’ interests can be pretty varied.
My concern is the massive time, administrative and financial resources required to manage these activities under the umbrella of the club. Unfortunately, I cannot manage all these new needs, as I travel 3/4 of the month. But, I am prepared for changes, if someone volunteers to take the lead. You just need to raise your hand.
As you have seen in 2006, we have the monthly gatherings. All SilverHairs are informed on this website or a simple email. All other activities and groups are formed on members’ initatives. There is flexibility and creativeness.
SilverHairsClub is small. We will stay within the limits of the law. As you know, our rules are pretty well observed by members; and these include no discussions on religion, sex, race, politics, direct selling and MLM. We will not collect membership fees. Only costs incurred will be shared among participants.
In summary, I prefer to stay and run the way we are now. You probably have not heard this view from me before. Stay with the law, maintain the club taboos, no membership fees, support SilverHairs activities and keep the club simple and manageable.
I am sure there is agreement and disagreements. Your views are most welcome. Please share it.
Terence Seah
I m in favour of registering the Club but on the other hand, I do share Terence’s thoughts.
In order to arrive at a definite decision, there are 2 things which I strongly believe are most important factors.
1) Initiative – Are we prepare to volunteer ourselves to take on important roles e.g. as office bearer
2) Commitment – What degree of commitment are we going to give even if we raise our hands and says “I want”
Please consider the above 2 before you pen your answer “yes”. Otherwise its definitely “no”.
Terence, Yew Kwong
I can see where you’re both coming from. But unless we can have committed members to serve as club administrator, secretary, treasurer, etc then registration is not a good idea.
Let’s keep it status quo at present, with interested groups participating in different activities. And if these activities result in having to form a registered society or company, then the particular group could do it.
Just my views at present.
Kenneth
The pros & cons of whether or not to register SHC as a club, succinctly summarized by Terence, are fairly balanced.
To my mind, the expectations of members will go 1-notch higher if SHC is a registered club, with members paying membership fees. Some of the free spirit typified by the easy-going manner, spontaneity and warmth oozing from volunteerism may be lost.
As it stands, SHC’s principal objective as “a platform for over 45s to meet new and more friends” is met. We have faithfully kept ourselves within the bounds allowed, enjoyed fellowship with each other and I don’t see any rhyme or reason for anyone wanting to challenge any establishment. SHC does not collect or keep $, and our activities are open to scrutiny.
Thus, although technically we are a group coming within the ambit of a “society” under the law, I am quite confident that we can continue with our activities unmolested.
Terence and his fellow founders have done a lot for SHC. It’s a sin to ask for more from them. Neither will I raise my hand if I have nothing more than the embarrassing strands to show.
As it is, SHC is flexible and responsive. An institutionalised SHC requires overheads, regular meetings of the Executive Committee and even general meetings of members. The travelling rodeos will be unnecessarily stressed to make time for these.
I am with Terence to keep SHC simple and manageable.
tim.
Dear all,
I agree with Terence & Tim and like the way it is. Keep it simple & fun for everyone !
Hi all,
I am a new member. I was attracted to SHC becos it is an informal club. Please keep it as it is.
I agree we keep it the way it is.
Dear all
I intended to join SHC ‘cos I like it the way it is – simple; informal; a platform for all above 45yrs to interact, mingle and meet new friends. We are not premium club (remember we are all into retirement or retired, so no fee and affordability are part of the key attraction to allow people from all walks of life to come in and join the activities).
Hi,
Its best to keep SHC status quo, as I believe that’s how SHC had drawn in vast memberships!
This is just my suggestion..
Keep it beautiful, simple with clarity.
Let each event runs by those with love, passion,dedication and commitment.
SHCians are seasoned, mellow and balanced lot without the sense of “dying” or allowing ennui to set in, so long each of us remains purposeful, helpful, useful and cheerful.
Keep it simple and beautiful.