Timeshare Consumers Association

How to set up a "COG"

Concerned Owners Group

The two keys to success are – Members and Money
The first thing you need to do is be clear about your objectives.
Very often these will be something like “ To maximise the pleasure and ensure good value for money of membership of xyz Club” but it could easily be something simple like “Stop the operator cheating us”, or “Put the control of the club/resort in the owners hands”
Main tasks, in order:
1. Collect as many members as possible. The club/resort will not be willing to give out any information, so you need to use:
a. The internet. TCA is able to help:
i. By putting a listing on the TCA website “Owners Groups” page
ii. By putting a notices on the TCA forum.
b. And you should put notices on any other forums that might be relevant
c. Distribute notices at the resort
d. Use local press and local radio.
e. Ask the exchange company if it will circulate a letter on behalf of the COG

2. Collect money from all members for newsletters, postage etc. – an initial payment of £10 should be sufficient .
3. Set up lines of communication.
a. Set up a website. TCA can provide, free of charge, a sub-domain website to get started. But a unique domain is essential if you want to grow - cost around £150 a year
b. Circulate a regular newsletter – many members will not have internet access. TCA can help by providing printing and distribution, at basic cost, for affiliated groups.

4. Formalise the group. This is essential:
a. To ensure that all members are clear about the objectives etc.
b. To give clear responsibilities to “officers”
c. To ensure that cash is handled in a proper manner
TCA can help by providing a model constitution.

5. Affiliate to TCA – the current affiliation fee is £100. Payment would not be required until COG funds permit.

August 2004