8 Steps for Effective Email Campaigns

Posted on March 6, 2012 by Henry O'Loughlin

Email is an inexpensive and effective way to communicate with members of your community. Most (or all) of you probably use email marketing to spread the word about your events, classes, programs, and news. However, do you have a strategy in place? In this article, we’ll cover eight necessary steps you should take to ensure that your email marketing is on track for success.

1. Collect email addresses: Gather email addresses at every opportunity. Request permissions at front desks, events, courses, and with service forms, surveys, and contests. Continue reading →

Four YMCA and P & R Social Media Examples to Learn From

Posted on March 2, 2012 by Henry O'Loughlin

Image credit: aismedia.com

There is a boatload of info on the internet about social media. But how many tangible examples have you been able to find for organizations like yours? Today, we’re going to cover two YMCAs and two parks and recreation agencies who are using social media to effectively engage with the community and drive registrations. Continue reading →

How to Use Foursquare for Your Recreation Department

Posted on February 2, 2012 by Henry O'Loughlin

It’s time to check-in with this whole Foursquare thing. Now, I understand that it’s hard enough to keep up with social media from Facebook‘s changes to Google throwing it’s hat into the social ring, but Foursquare is unique for rec departments.

If you have physical locations like gyms, parks, rec centers, pools, fitness centers, and athletic fields (sound familiar?), Foursquare allows you to entice and connect with customers as they physically visit your facilities. Let’s jump into it: Continue reading →

5 Tips for Building a Recreation Brand

Posted on December 16, 2011 by Irene Coghlan

Say the name of your parks and recreation group out loud. What comes to mind? Better yet, try the exercise with members of your community and ask them what words, colors, and images pop up. That’s your brand.

Although recreation brands are a relatively new concept, those parks and recreation groups that actively work on their brands are realizing the benefits. A strong recreation brand helps your organization stand out from the crowd by creating a positive identity that your community can relate to. Continue reading →

How to Drive Community Participation Using Customer Data

Posted on December 13, 2011 by Irene Coghlan

Increase participation in your community With so many recreation activities for the public to choose from, it’s important for your community organization to get creative to increase participation. Get started by taking a closer look at your customer data. You can uncover trends and identify ways to increase registrations. After that, take that information and use it to create targeted marketing campaigns and offers. Continue reading →