Publicize a meeting for the purpose of creating a high school alumni association. Utilize both traditional methods of publication, such as the local newspaper and radio stations. Typically, newspapers and radio stations allow nonprofit groups to generate announcements without charge. To reach a broader section of former students who live outside the area, post information on online social networking and the school district website. Permission from the high school principal or school board may be required before submitting information to the official school website.
Request a list of graduates from the high school office. Over the course of decades, many schools have consolidated. Incorporating graduates from the former high schools is a common practice when developing an alumni organization. The school will not likely have current addresses or release any personal information about former students. Publish the list on websites, an alumni association blog and send copies of the list to any graduates with known current addresses. The former students will be helpful in contacting others on the list. Send a notice about the meeting to the parents of former students who still live in the area. Although long-distance travel for meetings would be rare, the former students may still want to join the organization. Alumni association members who live outside the area may be able to donate funds to the group of attend an annual alumni social event.
Elect officers and establish bylaws and goals during the initial alumni organization meeting. Determine if dues will be required for membership and set an amount of payment. Open a bank account for the group to deposit all funds. The group can also begin the process of becoming a government recognized 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization. This typically requires the assistance of an accountant or an attorney.
Organize the group into committees for specified project and purposes. Schedule future meetings update school officials on the group's formation, purpose and planned events.