January sets the tone for your entire year as a chapter. It’s a fresh start, a clean calendar, and the perfect moment to get organized before things get busy again. The good news? You don’t need a complicated plan—or a full marketing department—to launch a strong, productive year.
This simple January Kickoff Checklist is designed specifically for AMPP chapter leaders. Whether you’re brand-new to your role or returning for another year, these steps will help you start 2026 with clarity, momentum, and confidence.
January is when members look for updated details—new officers, events, meeting locations—so this is the perfect moment to make sure everything is accurate and easy to find.
Update the basics:
Example:
If you’ve elected a new Chair or added a Young Professionals Liaison, be sure to update your chapter webpage so members know who to contact.
Helpful Resources:
You can find templates for various items on the AMPP Chapter Resources page.
You don’t need your whole year mapped out—but January is a great time to finalize what you want to do in the first three months.
Think in simple terms:
Example Q1 lineup:
Locking in early helps your chapter promote events sooner—and gets you better attendance.
Your marketing plan doesn’t have to be fancy. Just decide what you want to communicate each month—and stick to a manageable routine.
Sample 3-Month Plan:
January
February
March
When you know what you’re sending and when, it’s much easier to stay consistent.
Helpful Resources:
Ways to reconnect:
Example:
“Bring a colleague to our February event—visitors are always welcome!”
Small invitations like this go a long way in increasing attendance and expanding your community.
Steps to take this month:
Example:
Offer a New Year Sponsorship Special—companies that sign up in January receive an additional social media spotlight or recognition at the first event.
Helpful Resources:
Check out the Smart Sponsorships: Building Chapter Support that Lasts webinar to learn how to build out sponsorship packages for your chapter.
Digital cleanup checklist:
Example:
Swap last year’s holiday photo for a clean, simple January or “Happy 2026” graphic.
Start the year with a clear understanding of responsibilities—this prevents confusion, burnout, and duplicated effort.
Have your first committee meeting to:
Example:
Clear expectations make the year easier for everyone.
Ways to spark excitement:
Example:
Post a simple graphic:
“Here’s to a safe, successful, and engaging 2026! We can’t wait to see you at our February event.”
Creating excitement early encourages attendance and signals that your chapter is active and ready for the year ahead.
You don’t need big budgets, perfect planning, or elaborate strategies to have a successful chapter year. With a few simple steps—updating your info, planning Q1 events, engaging members early, organizing your team, and refreshing your digital spaces—you’ll set your chapter up for a smooth, productive, and engaging 2026.
And remember: you never have to start from scratch.
The AMPP Chapter Resources page is full of templates, examples, webinars, and tools designed to make your role easier.
Have question or need help getting started? Reach out to chapters@ampp.org. We are here to help!
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