Clubs

The Dartmouth Club of the Upper Valley faces some unique challenges. Obviously, it has the advantage of being located around the College and its many resources, as well as a large group of alumni and friends.Those advantages, however, are counterbalanced by the fact that people interact directly with the College on a regular basis and do not need to look to the club for Dartmouth fellowship, education or service. Nonetheless, it won a Club of the Year Award in 2002 because of its many activities and the support it provides to the College.

The Upper Valley attracts many retired alumni who become active in the club. But, surprisingly, about a quarter of its members never attended Dartmouth and have no connection other than their proximity and interest in the College.There are nearly 600 dues-paying members. With income of more than $15,000, the club is able to provide grants directly to students. In May of each year the board determines what balance remains after covering annual expenses and then funds requests such as a new batting cage for the baseball team or a non-profit job fail at Career & Employment Services. At this level even a few dollars can have a big impact, although the club managed to grant requests totaling $10,776 last year and even more in prioryears. According to club president Jim Adler '60: "The challenge has been to come up with a community service program that makes sense for our members. So many of our members are very deeply involved in their own volunteer activities, both Dartmouth-connected and in the community. This is especially true for our retired members."

Recently, the club undertook a substantial community service project by hosting regional Special Olympics Winter Games. While there have been summer games in the area previously, the board was looking for something that would be new and take advantage of Dartmouths enthusiasm for winter. The Skiway was available as an alpine venue and Garipay Field, across from the golf course in Hanover, provided the perfect site for cross-country skiing and snow-shoe races.

Peter Bleyler '61 led the effort with great logistical support from the Special Olympics regional office in New Hampshire. Once the board approved the project an e-mail was sent to the membership. "We received outstanding positive support," said Peter. Thirty volunteers planned and managed various aspects of the games, while dozens of Dartmouth students—including the men's and women's tennis teams—eagerly assisted at the events on January 11. A budget of approximately $15,000 was funded by donations and nearly $12,000 in sponsorships from Upper Valley businesses. "We had over 100 volunteers helping out with the competition, presenting awards, preparing and delivering lunches to athletes, coaches and volunteers and simply cheering on the athletes, said Pete.

Organizing such an event may seem like an overwhelming project to most clubs, but Peter noted that once the program is in place it gets much easier: "If we do the same thing next year, it will take 70 percent less effort." However, Peter already is thinking about expanding to include skating events and floor hockey!

We would like to feature significant events or programs of other Clubs in this column, but it is up to you to contact me with the information—this is your forum. Please send ideas to me!

2200 Wells Fargo Center, 90South 7th St., Minneapolis, MN 55402; (612)766-6810; (612) 766-1600 (fax);dryan@faegre.com