Top Traits of Successful Patrols

IMBA World Summit 2010

Panelists

• Joe Cross, Big South Fork Mountain Bike Patrol

• Charles Myrick, SORBA CSRA

Group Objectives

• Operate effectively and efficiently

• Interface with other local organizations

• Involve broad spectrum of the community

• Implement sustainable organizational structure

• Leave a legacy

• Have fun!

Partnerships

• Land Agencies/Owners

• User groups– MTB Clubs– Other uses like hiking,

equestrian, motorized

• Event promoters

Organizational Structure

• Put it on paper• Establish minimum basic roles

– Director– Assistant Director

• Scale as necessary• Structure is a means, not an end!

Recruitment

• Collaborate with local club

• Use media when effective– Web– Social media

• Old fashioned posters

• Refine your sales pitch

Trail Ambassadors

• No CPR/First Aid required

• Great way to introduce volunteers to NMBP

• Less expensive membership

• Cool blue jerseys!

Organizing Volunteers

• Land agency expectations– Scheduling needs– Critical trails– Total hours

• Balance flexibility with commitment

• Log hours

Incentives• Encourage participation!

• Determine priorities and reward work– Busy trails– Key land agency partners– Key events, ex: Take a Kid MTB Day

• Outreach to business community

Delegating

• Growth is a good thing!

• Break out specific activities– Events– Training

• Provide additional leadership roles

• Pick the right people

Recruit Leadership

• Build succession into leadership structure

• Training opportunities– Apprentice/shadowing – Introductory leadership roles

• Build a pool of potential leaders

• Transparency

Community Outreach

• Partnership opportunities– Event sponsorship– Equipment– Bike shop participation

• Other community organizations– Scouts– Trips for Kids

Longevity

• Relationship building– Land agencies– Local businesses– MTB clubs

• Opportunities come to

established groups

Questions?