...in volunteer organizations. I haven't held an elected position at the national level in this club, but I have at the local club level. These positions are filled by people who are both qualified to do the job and have the time to do it. Frequently, when a club officer is doing a great job, the membership realizes it and those folks will find themselves in the next election cycle without an opposing candidate. When one faces this situation after serving multiple terms in office, the job begins to feel more like a sentence than an elected volunteer position. The only way to end your sentence is to decline serving another term when (or prior to) the call for nominations is made.

All of these positions require a great deal of dedication to the hobby, the club and its members. While most club members have a true appreciation for what the elected officers actually do on their behalf, there is all too often a vocal minority of the membership that under-appreciates those efforts, and that (also all to often) results in public personal attacks on people who are not only doing this for free, they are all incurring some level of investment in time and money. That can be very discouraging, not only to those incumbents considering serving another term, but also to those who might consider running for a position.

I would encourage newer members to run for office if they want to. Announce that you are interested in serving a sentence and let people know so you can be nominated and put on the ballot. Then, campaign like you were running for a paid political position. Put yourself and your platform in front of the membership every chance you get. You will only remain an unknown entity if you choose to be one.