Community involvement is an important aspect of a successful Tar Wars program. Gaining support, developing partnerships, and promoting ongoing relationships with community members or groups can be beneficial for your program. Don't hesitate to talk about Tar Wars with everyone you meet.
Prize Donations
Local merchants who hear about Tar Wars may want to donate prizes or services for your poster contest. Contacting a variety of community members and organizations increases the number and type of prize donations you receive and may include gift certificates, savings bonds, and monetary awards. In return, they receive recognition for supporting a worthwhile cause.
Judging Opportunities
Consider inviting high-profile community members, such as news anchors, sports figures, and local celebrities, to be a judge for your poster contest. Their participation can create excitement and add recognition to the program and your poster contest.
Media/PR
Media contacts in print, radio, and television can generate public awareness and interest in your Tar Wars program. Get more exposure by displaying posters in local museums, city halls, libraries, shopping malls, post offices, and other community locations.
Community Gatekeepers
Don't overlook forming relationships with local school boards, PTA/PTO groups, the Junior Auxiliary, hospitals, health departments, law enforcement agencies, and faith-based organizations. Suggest presenting Tar Wars in conjunction with existing health/wellness-based programs they may have. Liaisons with other programs and groups can be rewarding for your program.
Also, keep the following in mind:
- When partnering with any organization, consider whether their goals are compatible with the goals of Tar Wars. They should be.
- Personal contact is very important. You want people to associate a face with Tar Wars.
- Relationships with community members or groups are ongoing. Keep them informed year-long. Send them program summaries, newsletters, and other information, such as when next year's program begins.
- Be sure to thank and recognize your prize donors.
- Enthusiasm is key. Showing it will be contagious and will attract energetic and interested individuals.