Outreach:

Going the Extra Mile

Outreach is an art unto itself, and is critical to the success of any community-engaged project. Here are some tips for successful outreach from MABELLEarts:

1. Pick up the phone

You may find it surprising in the social media era, but outreach by phone is still the most effective. A phone call is a direct invitation to participate, from one person to another. It offers a chance for a potential participant to ask questions, clarify event details, and re-establish a connection with you or your organization. MABELLEarts maintains a phone database and works hard to update it when new people show up to programs and activities. Don’t rely on social media or even personalized emails. Pick up the phone!

2. Work in public

Another successful outreach strategy is to work in public. Consider leading a visually interesting workshop or performance in public view and be sure to offer opportunities for new people to jump in. Even if people don’t participate the first time they witness you working in public, this is a highly effective form of outreach, as it offers a sample of what participants can expect from you, and an easy way to get involved.

3. Work where people already are

Just as it’s useful to work in public, it’s also useful to work where people already congregate. This could be in a community centre during programming time, or in the lobby of an apartment building on the weekend. Offer a short and simple activity—something that people can engage with easily, even if only for a few minutes. Be sure to tell everyone where they can find you or participate next. Ask if they would like to share their contact information (including phone number) with you, so they can be kept in the loop.

4. Invite new people to join

It sounds simple, but don’t forget to issue clear invitations to new people to join in your work. Make it clear that you want new participants. Natalie James, who works at Spence Neighbourhood House in Winnipeg, notes that it’s worth considering who is best suited to issue invitations on behalf of your project. “There are personalities that are really great at inviting people. People who can say ‘hey we’re doing this!’ and get people excited. If you have the right person doing the inviting, it makes a big difference.” When new people do show up, be sure to introduce yourself and others in the project, make them comfortable and get them involved. At the end, make sure to invite them to come back again—outreach is also about maintaining relationships and making sure that those who are committed to the work you do continue to feel welcome and included.