Building an education program creates a symbiotic relationship with your community. The CAF wants to educate youth with positive messaging, and your community is hungry for meaningful, affordable, family-friendly events. Your community and your unit each get stronger in this worthy endeavor.

 

Relevant events and outreach programs, clear communication and quality relationships are key to success. Your community connections will prove to be your greatest asset… all you need to do is tap into it!

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Reach out and build awareness:

Below are some suggestions on potential partnerships. Check with Unit members, friends, family, coworkers, others you may know who can help with introductions.

• Regional leadership of scouting organizations

• School boards

• Faith-based community action groups

• Local like-minded non-profits

• Veteran groups

• Community festival organizers

• Area museums

• Local libraries

• Special interest groups – parent/moms clubs, youth groups, parent teacher organizations (PTOs), middle and high school after school clubs

• Local press – TV stations, newspapers, magazines, radio stations

• Local Facebook interest groups

• Last but not least…. unit membership! (Don’t forget to keep all your members in the loop and invite them to participate!)

 

Foster ongoing relationships

• After you introduce yourself, your unit and your mission, keep in contact! Build an email list and use it regularly to send updates on upcoming activities, successful events and opportunities for collaboration.

• Don't forget the value of a hand written thank you note!

• Send a Unit Newsletter--Include all your relevant education program information in your unit’s newsletter and website

• Promote events on your social media channels to engage your followers and drum up support.

• Communicate early and communicate often to create strong, lasting relationships! 

• Connect and collaborate with your fellow Education Officers and other CAF Units for a whole new level of support! 

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