[Steppes] Is SCA membership declining overall?

[Viviana Rowntree]

As a relative New Comer (my second year will be at Elfsea Springe Faire) and
as a *big sigh* middle aged adult woman, I have a few thoughts.

First, we need to make each event welcoming to New Comers.  HE Katheryn and
I have had this conversation several times over the few years of my
involvement.  If it had not been for a select few, I would probably would
not have become involved.

Next, we need to consider what "attracts" people to the group.  I know what
drew me to the SCA.  I was not a gamer growing up. I played D&D less than
one handful of times.  I always had an affinity to historical costuming. I
was well read for a young person but preferred historical things.  As I have
grown into adulthood, I realized I am an artist, of sorts.

So for some it would be the fighting, others the art.  Some the "dress up"
factor.  Others the group interaction.

If we only want to gain the younger populace membership, then perhaps we
need to talk to those younger members of our groups and ask THEM what we
need to do to involve the younger folk.  I would say, do not discount those
of us who are no longer in the gentle youth of our days.  We have much to
give.  And you never know who WE talk to.

As I have grown in this group, I have become closer to some who I count as
dear friends.  But mayhap we need to be a little less cliquish and more
"open and welcoming arms".  I am as much to blame for not welcoming newer
members as I tend toward observation than interaction.  But to grow this
wonderful world, we need to all interact.  Share with others. Talk to
others. Share, as my Laural is want to say, our passions.

Is it not the spark of excitement in another's eyes that makes us wonder, is
that for me too?

Just some thoughts from a not so young "younster".

YIS,

Lady Viviana Rowntree
crazy holder of not one but two offices... *gentle smile*