By Michael S. Hyatt – Province President
Beginning a new life in a community with few friends can seem a huge challenge, but there’s a better way to get involved than hanging out at the most popular bar or club. There are a couple of easy things to do, but first you have to determine your interests. Are you interested in humanitarian efforts, community charities, seniors, youth, or city leadership? Once you start you will be overwhelmed by the opportunities that present themselves. It’s rare that someone steps up and says let me help. Once you’re established you’ll be asked to solicit others.
First, you have to begin to build a generic network. Organizations like the Chamber of Commerce, Rotary, and Lions Club are always looking for new members. Look for Alumni clubs of your college or university. Most cities have leadership organizations like Leadership Atlanta or Leadership Stillwater. Look for professional organizations based on your career choice, i.e., CPA, attorney, banker, pharmacist, etc. Building a local network is the first step. Don’t forget about Phi Delta Theta alumni clubs. Brothers are always interested in introducing other brothers to you. Meet as many people as you can but never talk about your motives only your interests and those of people you meet. This is most arduous process. It’s not about money at this point but meeting as many people as you can.
The next step is about volunteering. If you have a passion about the homeless, then volunteer at the night shelter; if it’s about youth, then go to the YWCA or the Boy Scouts. Again money isn’t the issue – non profits are always looking for volunteers. It actually doesn’t take much effort but it does take time. Expect missing dinner and a football game every now and then.
The basic truth about getting involved is building a network and establishing credibility. Follow through and don’t let people down. Do what you commit to do and you will get those phone calls. Find your passion and go to work!
Michael S. Hyatt is a Financial Advisor with UBS in the company’s Fort Worth, Texas office. A financial professional for over 40 years, Mike joined UBS (formerly PaineWebber, Inc.) in 1992 from Texas Commerce Bank Fort Worth after serving as President. An active member of his community, Mike is a board member, executive committee member and Treasurer of the Fort Worth Zoo Association. He is Past President of Leadership Fort Worth and Vice President of Finance and Director of Trinity Terrace, Inc., a continuing care retirement community located in Fort Worth. He is past president of Adolescent Pregnancy Prevention, Inc., Casa Mañana Musicals, Inc. and the Texas Boys Choir as well as an advisory board member and past president of Fort Worth Sister Cities International. Mike is Chair Emeritus of Sister Cities International located in Washington, D.C. after serving as Chair from July 2008 to July 2010. Mike also serves on the Oklahoma State University Foundation Board of Governors. He was recently appointed as Province President, Rho North Province of Phi Delta Theta.
