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Idea Garden March 2010
ideagardent_chicory   The Wonder of Spring 
 
   If you want to see the world with a fresh new
   perspective, we recommend you go on a
   nature walk one spring day with a young
   child. Amazing!
 
        

Igniting Community Support
 
How about this for alliteration? Consistent, cost-effective communication is key to continued community support.
 
We remain big fans of newsletters, even though they seem "old school." While
e-newsletters are a cost-effective option in today's digital world, we suggest sending your community stakeholders at least two print pieces per year (be sure to send your donor envelope along whenever you can).
 
Some other tips: 
  • Keep newsletters short - focus on impact statistics, brief success stories, and critical needs
  • Use a template that has been created by a graphic designer
  • For print pieces, full color isn't necessary if you have good design (if using one or two colors, keep photos black and white)
  • When the budget is really tight, do a postcard instead of a newsletter: a success story photo on the front and a brief story description on the mailing side can deliver your message with punch!
  • Choose 1 font as your standard text font and stick with it (consider switching your computer default settings to it as well - what a time saver!) - If you want a different font for headlines, choose one more for that
  • Skip the clip art and use photos whenever you can (make these as big as you can)
  • Tweak your print newsletter template to create your annual report and you will reinforce your brand AND save BIG on staff time!
For more ideas about communication tools that make an impact, contact us. 

Energize your leadership

 

Performance Scorecards are a simple way to keep staff and board focused on what matters: RESULTS! Lori will be presenting a session on performance scorecards at the Nebraska Governor's Conference on Volunteerism in Omaha on April 8th. For more details about the conference, click here. We'll talk more about performance scorecards in future issues of Idea Garden.

  

Give us your feedback

We've changed our font size in this Idea Garden issue and would welcome your input on that or other topics. Font too small? Too much or too little text? Specific issues or challenges you'd like us to address in upcoming editions? Click here to share your thoughts.

Thanks for all the great work you do for our communities. Happy Spring!
Bluestem Interactive helps good people grow strong organizations that transform communities. To plant an idea in our garden, visit www.bluesteminteractive.com. For each idea we publish, you will earn one free hour of consulting time.