Helen Hartley was a guest speaker at the ninth annual Chinook Constituency Conference held in Burdett this year with ‘Together We Can’ as its theme.
Hartley spoke first at 10:30, giving a speech entitled Together We Can Climb Mountains. Later, at 11:15 she hosted a discussion on finding solutions to the issues that faces the Women’s Institute organizations of today.

“I am not here to tell people what to do, I am just here to steer the discussion. You tell me, what needs to be done?” she asked.
She went on to say that decreasing numbers in membership seems to be the major issue, and is one facing service clubs across the nation.
She said stories about what the WI is doing to improve the lives of others need to get to the public to excite some interest in joining the group. She said it is vital to involve the media and to make sure when your photo is taken to look as though you are having a blast.
“It is important people are aware of what you do. These organizations tend to become a well kept secret.”She said one way to start would be to make a prospect list, spending some attention considering the people you know who would be great additions to the club for what ever reason, be it their enthusiasm or their ability to teach a class.
She pointed out another drawing point might be the wonderful crafts the ladies make, some of which were on display.
Some of the ladies discussed how much they would enjoy getting members of the Mennonite culture to join the organization. They discussed some things that might be offered that would be of interest to this group. Hartley suggested the WI ladies might even try a partnership first, going to them and requesting help on a specific project.
Another member said she knew of several Mennonite ladies who would be interested in joining the WI. She added that offering to teach things like making pickles or pies, or teaching knitting or crocheting, might draw in members from a younger crowd.
Hartley agreed these were all good ideas. She said: “Develop strong selling tools. Be personal. Let people know your accomplishments. Keep the campaign going.”She pointed out volunteers tend to have better health than others . They have purpose and something to look forward to.
Other issues included teaching children about agriculture, family values, family violence, health and social services and education.