Questions & Answers

How does a chapter work?
Have you ever said to a group of your friends, "We should get together like this more often?" Everyone agrees, but nothing ever really happens. That's where Epsilon Sigma Alpha (ESA) comes in. Your chapter can be whatever your members want it to be. ESA provides a proven structure to follow, which will help you make your chapter fun, beneficial, and successful for everyone involved. Whether you get together to read books, do hobbies and crafts, study investments, exercise, or just meet socially, you bring the people together, and ESA will add the ingredients to make it a success.

What kind of leadership training does ESA offer?
The opportunities throughout your ESA association are many. Within your chapter you will gain formal and informal hands-on leadership experience by assuming officer roles, chairing committees, and handling special projects. ESA International also offers special seminars and educational programs to expand your leadership expertise for personal and professional use.

How many hours must I commit to ESA?
There is really no average number of hours an individual must commit. Each person decides how much time and/or resources he or she can give. Most chapters meet once or twice a month, and each chapter determines meeting times and dates.

What recognition do ESA members receive?
ESA has an extensive awards program open to all members. If your time and interests permit, the rewards and recognition can be great. In addition, many members have received honors, employment credit, and letters of recommendation for their ESA training and accomplishments. Members who complete the ESA awards program receive official designation as Certified Volunteers of America.

Can new members hold office?
Yes. Each chapter elects officers according to its bylaws. In new chapters, new members will fill offices where needed. Regional, state, and international councils have annual elections. These offices usually require some background qualifications.

What happens to my membership if I move?
You may transfer to another chapter in your new location, or you may organize another chapter. Guidelines on organizing a new chapter are available from ESA International Headquarters.

How are the many chapters of ESA coordinated?
Local chapters are organized into city, district, state, and international councils. This infrastructure helps to establish the communications network and collective strength needed to tackle large projects. Chapters may choose to participate in council activities to whatever extent they desire. Council meetings and conventions provide an excellent time to meet one another, exchange ideas, and generate enthusiasm. ESA's International Convention, held each July, is a prime opportunity for all members to gather in force, enjoy the bonds they share, and celebrate their achievements.

What role does ESA Headquarters play?
The International staff develops support materials, channels information to members and officers, trains leaders, assists in grass-roots level projects, keeps records, distributes international awards, and handles the administrative functions of a major association. In short, ESA Headquarters helps, promote, coordinate, and unify local, state, and regional efforts, acting as a central link between the many facets of ESA. To help keep that link strong, ESA International publishes The Jonquil, an informative membership magazine published twice annually.

Is there anything else I should know about ESA membership?
Yes. Through ESA, achieving high goals is fun and rewarding. ESA members capture the power of positive thinking, bring together a collective spirit of adventure, and prove that the difficult - and sometimes the impossible - can be accomplished. In short, ESA creates solid ground in a world of change. Offering a vast array of educational opportunities, friends you can count on, and stimulating activities, you know your future time will be well spent when you join ESA.