What use is an F-call?

Amateur Radio is a personal thing. It's an expression of communication, of exploration, of invention, learning, electronics, physics and personal achievement. The community we are members of is a living organism. We pick up random people from the global community, spark their interest and gain another member.

For new entrants to our community there is much to see and do. Often the choices are overwhelming and common mistakes are made. While every person has their own journey through this, there are things we as a group could do to help.

Any Amateur can be a mentor or Elmer, to new member of our hobby. As Rob W9BRD said in 1971, "We need those Elmers. All the Elmers, including the ham who took the most time and trouble to give you a push toward your license, are the birds who keep this great game young and fresh."

In your local club, is there a mentoring program? Is it explicit? Have people put their name up as a point of contact to new members? Are there activities that your club does that helps new and prospective entrants to our hobby?

Of course, if you are not a member of a club, you can still be an Elmer. Nothing to it. Hang your shingle out, talk to people, help them, encourage them, guide them and inspire them.

The challenge of being "an unsung father of Amateur Radio" is that you're unsung and often invisible. You might be able and willing to help people, but if nobody knows that you exist, you're not going to be that effective.

So, if you have an urge to inspire the new generation of Amateurs, let your community know. Make some noise, get on air on your local repeater or DX net and make it known that you can help.

And finally, if you've just come to this magical world of Amateur Radio, Welcome.

I'm Onno VK6FLAB