This year, after many conversations with TVRC runners and members of other clubs in The Villages, we have decided to formalize membership and ask participants to pay dues for the first time. Money is always a hard topic to discuss and as we had not been collecting dues in the past it was not an easy decision.
The club has enjoyed great success over the years and as a result continues to evolve to promote the joy of running to the ever-expanding community in The Villages. We’ve reached a point where we’d like to implement some new ideas to expand our group and improve the value of TVRC to our members. This includes a website, promotional material, special events, guest speakers, holiday gatherings and improving our presence in organized runs.
In the past, individual runners paid for many things out of their own pockets. While very much appreciated that is not a sustainable model as the same people were always contributing. Oftentimes, other runners never fully understood the generosity of some of our members. We’ve prepared a simple budget and do expect that a $20 annual fee for runners that are here more than three months per year and a $10 fee for snowbirds who are here less than 3 months should provide for the anticipated costs.
So, what do members get for their dues? In addition to the above-mentioned benefits, members will be able to purchase TVRC apparel at cost. Non-members will still be able to buy apparel but will incur a surcharge on those purchases. Members will also be able to vote on TVRC issues and hold club officer positions.
We are certainly hopeful that the proposed dues will cover the expected costs. There may still be activities where participants may incur an additional expense. Should there be extra funds in the kitty you can rest-assured that those funds will go to the benefit of our members.
Yes, TVRC is getting a bit more formal and organized. But hopefully everyone sees these changes as beneficial and continues to feel welcomed and finds joy in participating in our special running community.
The Villages Running Club 