Build Reciprocal Relationships
Think about how often your unit reaches out to the community to ask for support. How often do you ask community leaders how you can help them? Scouting is all about community service. When you're brainstorming for ideas, include the groups that have helped your units too! Here are a few projects to consider:
1. Host a "Fill a Back Pack Drive". This will help families that may not be able to afford school supplies. Plus, you can add your Unit's flyers in the backpacks!
2. Speaking of School Supplies, plan a School Supply Drive for the teachers in your local school(s).
3. Grounds Clean Up! You can pick up trash, rake, plant, trim the shrubbery of your Chartered Organization and local playgrounds.
4. Reach Out When you Don't Need Something! It's important to stay in contact with your Scouting supporters throughout the year. Send quarterly updates via an email newsletter, ask Scouts to write personal notes, send holiday cards, call just to say "hello".
When you're participating in community events, be sure your group wears their Class A uniforms or Class B shirts. If you're hosting a "Drive By" collection, set up your Unit's flags, banner and other items that will spark a conversation about Scouting. Be sure your Scouts and Leaders have Bring a Buddy cards in their pockets to share with those who are interested in learning more. Don't forget to share your photos and captions with your community news outlets and with your followers on social media.
Download the Membership Backdater! Psst! It has Community Service Project reminders built in!
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