Recruit younger members!

Replies

• ME

  Member

  Dec 6, 2008

  I am in the San Antonio area if anyone is needing resources.  I'd say I'm fairly well plugged in around here.  Drop me a message if you need some contacts.
  
  Happy Trails,
  Jerry

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• ME

  Member

  Dec 7, 2008

  Sara,
  
  Thank you for that post.  I think a lot of us in the US are unaware of what is happening in the UK and other places.  I think that we assume, and you know what happens when you make an assumption (look up the famous quote by Samuel L. Jackson for a laugh).
  
  Moreover, we begin to feel frustrated and helpless.  I am very happy to hear that younger people are being brought into the nudist lifestyle and in a heathy way.
  
  Maybe Sara, you can talk more about events that draw the younger crowd, what your friends find that not only draws them, but keeps them into the lifestyle.  Maybe if you can be descriptive, and we can be attentative, just maybe an idea could formulate that might help those of us here to come up with a new plan.  I know my plans thus far have not worked, so I need something new.
  
  Certainly there has to be a way to get a younger generation involved.  I don't know how to get a waterpark to allow a nudist venue, even for a few hours, but someone on here may have an "eureka" moment based upon what is going on somewhere else.
  
  Happy Trails,
  Jerry

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• PH

  

  Philfreeeuk

  Dec 12, 2008

  I Just saw a post that said the "International Naturist Federation" have just opened a facebook group.
  
  The name is INF youth, for under 30's.
  
  That's a step in the right direction, It could reach a pretty big audience.

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• ME

  Member

  Dec 12, 2008

  Good call WhiteBear. I think that's a problem for a lot of people and not just the younger folks. As long as nudism is looked on as something weird or deviant it's going to be a lifestyle which for a large group of people, is going to have to remain in the closet. One of the organizations I work for recently donated a large amount of assets to a community here in the Northwest that practices a somewhat clothing optional lifestyle.  During the meetings regarding the donation it was like being in a room of little kids with all the snickering and comments on the “naked hippies”. Everybody thought it was great that we where able to make the contribution to them but they just couldn't get past the uncomfortable awkwardness of it.
  After the group had separated however, a lot of their attitudes changed and quite a few of them expressed a desire to visit the community. At least when they where one on one and not faced with the entire group.

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• ME

  Member

  Dec 13, 2008

  Ok, Steve, you challenged resorts to make it a worthwhile experience so they come back.
  
  I think that is the issue. Just what does it take to make it a worthwhile experience???  How do we keep them coming back?  I think those questions have been bouncing around this thread for a while, and as of yet, I don't see anyone offering an answer.
  
  Thanks
  Jerry

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• ME

  Member

  Dec 13, 2008

  Actually I think we have gotten some pretty good suggestions in here. For example Sara and her water slides. I believe someone (sorry can't remember who off the top of my head) also mentioned something along the lines of an arcade type facility or something like that. There was also a mention of “popular” music which I assume falls under social activities. I know most resorts hold dances and things which is great but I can't imagine 18 – 20 somethings dancing to “Margaritaville”. I think that was the gist of the statement anyway.
  Granted, water slides would be way outside most of the smaller resorts budget even in a good year. The point I'm getting from what has been said here so far is that it's going to take a complete change of mindset in order for these places to attract a younger crowd. You and I may think of a resort as a great place to go relax by a pool and read a good book or enjoy some conversation over a beer. Perhaps even take on a light game of water volleyball if we are feeling particularly adventurous. It would appear that they are looking for a more active, adventurous environment. Not necessarily something that's set with structured activities but a place where they can hang out with their friends and not feel as though they are sitting in the day room of a retirement community with a  bunch of old farts playing Canasta. That's what I have gleaned from the conversation so far anyway.
  So how do we make that change? Well, I don't know for sure. That's going to have to be left up to those folks who may have some say over how the places are run. The only advice I could offer on that one is to actually listen to what the younger folks have to say and make a commitment to them and to all of us to actually make an effort to make the changes.

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• ST

  

  steve_c

  Jan 3, 2009

  I have 1 possible solution. One that would atract a lot more readers  that have never thought of looking on the net . Make a flyer and copy some prints and post them around town and the surrounding area . If you have to then make some tear off tabs at the bottom of the flyer so they can call for info . they may not follow through if they have to get a pen and paper out to write down everything . just a suggestion .

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• ME

  Member

  Jan 3, 2009

  On the other hand, when my ex and I were mid twenties and decided to try going nude, we found a place that was listed as 'clothing optional'.  Now for what that's worth, seems to scare away those who are nudists.  But we found, that given a guided tour, clothed, that we got a chance to see the 65 acres worth of nude area, and the funny thing that happened, understanding that my ex-wife then wasn't totally convinced, was that as we were getting the tour, we felt as if everyone was starting at us because we were different, i.e. had clothes on.  That implied encouragement, shall we call it, determined whether we were going to stay or leave.  We also knew that if we stayed, we didn't want to feel alienated, that we'd have to match the environmental attire.  It was a soft, no pressure, introduction to the lifestyle, without demands or threats that we 'had to be a certain way'.  We decided to stay, got undressed and was welcomed and felt very comfortable,    Now, almost 20+ years later, I still no clothes...
  Steve

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• GR

  

  GreatDeadParrot

  Mar 4, 2009

  So you think that's where the future of nudism/naturism lies, then?

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• ME

  Member

  Mar 4, 2009

  Swifthawk you forgot about that trip to school in the 3 feet of snow also being uphill both ways

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• ME

  Member

  Mar 7, 2009

  Thanks to everyone for the comments.  Welcome Jade.  I'll refrain from sending you a friend request, I know you are getting bombarded.

  Sorry I have been away lately everyone.  I have a update on my profile.  I'll try to catch up so I have something intelligent to say.  Other than that, thanks everyone for helping to secure my way of life.  I think the median age of nudists in the US is like 55 and I'm on the short side, thus I'd like to get some more younger one's in so I'm not the last one at the dance.

  Thanks
  Jerry

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• JO

  

  jobloggs

  Mar 9, 2009

  I believe that as people get older that, they are more comfortable with their bodies.  The younger generation, although more sexually active and flirtacious, do not have the ability..... in general..... to be able to seperate going nude from sexual arousement, and the desire for Humpy-bumpy.  All ages should be able to feel comfortable without clothes, however, under a certain age they should always be accompanied by a gardian.  As for young women/men of a suitable age; a good idea would be for them to go to a nudist meet-up in a safe place with a seasoned nudist that can be trusted, and then it is up to that new nudist to bring along with him/her other like-minded younger people, increasing their numbers all the time.  I don't believe that it is a fault of older nudists that the younger generation find it difficult to enter the nude scene.  A message to all you young wanabe nudists: Get stuck in, it is not as hard as you think to go nude for the first time.  When you strip amongst other nudes, you do not get stared at, and you immediately feel at home; I think  its because going nude is actually a very natural thing to do, regardless of any general beliefs by non-nudists (who have never tried it, so they don't have a clue of how liberating it feels). Yes, there are not very many nude spring chickens around, but if you are one or want to be one then I can guarantee that you won't regret it, and you must keep adding new nudists, you can always stay in a group until you gain confidence, although I don't think there is any chance that newcomers can feel like they don't belong, even on their first day.

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• GR

  

  GreatDeadParrot

  Mar 10, 2009

  So what do you think is the solution for keeping nudism/naturism alive?  I mean, I've been a couple clubs, and although I enjoyed myself quite a bit, you're right in saying that there's a certain way things are done, and they don't want to change.  But they're not going to live forever.  Do you think that something specific needs to be done to encourage acceptance of and participation in nude recreation by our generation, or do you think it will happen on its own?

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• GR

  

  GreatDeadParrot

  Mar 11, 2009

  I think you're right.  Everything changes, and the more "institutionalized" a thing becomes, the more likely it is to be swept aside by the ebb of the tide of time.  That said, I will enjoy the clubs while they last, and when they're gone, I'll enjoy being free by myself and with friends whenever possible.

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• CA

  

  Canoodler

  Mar 21, 2009

  Here's a question. Is the median age any different than it always is and will be for nudism? Maybe young people, more involved in finding a partner and procreating are naturally more inclined to think nudity equals sex. Also, they don't have the time or money for extras like resort memberships and trailers.
  Here's a suggestion, and this is from another oldy. I've been a nudist all my life but I'm 43 now. Sigh.
  Instead of asking the young folk to buy memberships and subscriptions, what about just advertising special days on local free beaches? Kids will come to a nude volleyball tournament at Sandy Hook or Haulover or Wasaga or Wreck. Advertise at colleges and make sure you ask first. Make sure there's refreshments and reps from the national interest group. Also, the AANR or FCN or whatever can get young people to sign up for free, just to include their email address. Wouldn't it be great to have honorary memberships so the numbers could swell? Let's face it, everything else on the web is free, so kids are used to signing up for nuthin'!

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• UK

  

  UKrudegirl

  Mar 30, 2009

  [quote] [/quote]  Perhaps it might be worth looking at how the European clubs and resorts operate ... ?Actually this is a redundent post as I somehow missed a couple of pages where Sara made her comments. Mind you I must say that the UK / European places we have been to do not seem short of young bloods - more 'party' than 'pinocle' with dance music, 'clubby atmosphere' and yes, I have to say it ... youthful exuberance for the biological imperative in evidence to a degree. Love n stuffRudie xx

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• NO

  

  Noblefriend

  Mar 31, 2009

  Personally we could care less what the mean age of a nudist is. We are happy with the way that it is. With age comes maturity (well sometimes)Eventually as society evolves and grows farther away from our Puritan origin nudism will become more accepted.  Just be patient, but remain vigilant and it will happen. If the older crowd bothers you then do something about it. If you aren't going to do anything then accept it or move on.  Old or not this site has some of the most down to earth people we've ever met. Take care just our two cents :) K and J

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• NU

  

  nuderunr

  Mar 31, 2009

  Certainly I too support the growth of more young people in the nudist lifestyle but readily see many of the same obstacles that others here have already pointed out which have no easy solutions.  Reading on the web I have found even more.  Things like;
  
  Many young people are much more comfortable with the idea of nudity than past generations and really don’t see the relevance of organized nudism.  They see it more as a cause or an institution, one that has just been rendered unnecessary with the culture we have today.
  
  Many young people see nudists clubs as a place limited to activities like swimming in a communal pool, playing lawn games and watching TV which they aren’t terribly interested in participating in, either nude or clothed.
  
  There are lots of other competing events (Burning Man, music festivals, skyclad pagan ceremonies, etc) where people can be nude if they so desire which interests young people more than the activities available at traditional nudist clubs and resorts.
  
  Some regard nudism was a fad among people who grew up in a restricted milieu which again for them makes it irrelevant and unappealing.
  
  Admittedly, most resorts and clubs are populated by members over 35 and even older and many young people state that they would feel really uncomfortable in that environment.  Honestly, when I think back to the distant days of my youth, I have to question how comfortable I would have felt as a twenty something spending time naked in the presence of mostly people 20 or more years older than I.
  
  Finances definitely come into play.  Again recalling my twenties, I likely wouldn’t have had the spare cash to shell out for day fees or lodging at a resort or club.  If anything I’d have been more likely to visit a nude beach, a cheaper if not totally free alternative.
  
  As someone has observed, nudists, like everyone don't want to die out.  We don't want our clubs and resorts to turn into gated assisted living facilities.  But I’m not sure what the answer is to lowering the obstacles to more youthful involvement.  Generations simply differ on what they enjoy recreationally speaking.  What a 40 year old enjoys is not necessarily going to be attractive to a 20 year old.
  
  Some resorts are inviting college students for “college weekends” to try and pique the interest of young people and that perhaps is a good start.  I assume they try to target activities that are of interest to that age group and possibly they only allow young people to attend on those special weekends.

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• FR

  

  frebeach

  Apr 12, 2009

  If I may be of some help, one thing you can do is rent a city pool that has few windows that have to be covered and advertise for a young adult nudist swim night. If you have a nudist beach nearby, as a group of 2 or 3 people, go and talk to the young people at the beach. The question is what kind of activities are you going to invite them to. That's your job. House Pot Luck party, byob? Just tell people when they get there that it's not a sex party. (g)
  Our beach is on the Toronto Islands, a 10 minute ferry ride and a 10 minute walk.
  Dave in Toronto

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• TH

  

  Thomas

  Apr 12, 2009

  I am happy to say that this site is helping recruit younger members.  I met some new ones this past week in chat who just joined who are very nice and active in chat.  Hopefully more will follow.

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• NU

  

  nuderunr

  Apr 20, 2009

  AANR-SW recently sponsored what I think was a great event for helping to attract more young people to nudism.  Vice-President and Youth Director, Jim Bishop, planned a Spring Break event that was held the weekend of March 20-22, The College Nudist Weekend, at Oaklake Trails resort in Oklahoma.  The event was designed for young adults ages 18-25.  Events included everything from an informational meeting and tour of the grounds to hot dogs, hot tubs, volleyball tournament, a late night hike, a movie, and a special social evening event, plus great food and more.  This I think is one example of the positive steps that can be taken to encourage more young people to try social nudity and nude recreation.  Read more about the event athttp://www.collegenudistseminars.com/

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• NU

  

  nuderunr

  Apr 20, 2009

  [quote]If I may be of some help, one thing you can do is rent a city pool that has few windows that have to be covered and advertise for a young adult nudist swim night. If you have a nudist beach nearby, as a group of 2 or 3 people, go and talk to the young people at the beach. The question is what kind of activities are you going to invite them to. That's your job. House Pot Luck party, byob? Just tell people when they get there that it's not a sex party. (g) Our beach is on the Toronto Islands, a 10 minute ferry ride and a 10 minute walk. Dave in Toronto[/quote] Thanks Dave!  I think those are both super ideas that would likely bring some positive results.

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• CO

  couple_lez

  May 10, 2009

  hi ....we r nudist married cpl , looking for nude cpl , as a friend. email (mr_nudeboy9@yahoo.com) or add us as couple_lez at yahoo messanger

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• CH

  Chadman

  May 17, 2009

  I work with youth on a daily basis and do know that children and youth are born and have very little concept of shame associated with nudity to later years.  I believe the way to promote the lifestyle is not necessarily to market to youth, but to somehow let them know that being in a birthday suit is okay.  Changing and channeling attitudes to belief before corruption I believe is the only plausible way to do this.  How to channel, or allow to be channeld?  I believe that is the question.

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