project steps
Steps for planning a successful JOIN HANDS DAY event
Start a Committee
Designate a project leader from your society, organization, or group’s chapter, lodge, etc. This person will be responsible for registering the project, finding youths and adults to participate and assigning tasks. They also can help recruit volunteers from your society/organization and any outside groups or youth clubs, as needed.
Choose a Project
There are hundreds of fun and worthwhile ways to improve your town, neighborhood or community. In selecting the right project, choose a project that is:
1. Big enough to be worthwhile and challenging.
2. Small enough to be done with the time and effort available.
3. A reasonable fit with everyone’s talents, experiences and resources.
4. Involves both youth and adult members.
Project Ideas
To help you get started with your brainstorming, review the list of project ideas to stimulate discussion about activities that may be right for your group.
Spread the Word
1. Contact the media in advance and distribute press releases detailing your project and its impact on the community.
2. Publicize your society’s/organization’s JOIN HANDS DAY participation. Download signs.
3. Distribute a memo from your home office, encouraging your members, employees and/or chapters/lodges/etc., to get involved and volunteer.
Recruit Volunteers
1. Hold a JOIN HANDS DAY planning meeting for your members/employees.
2. Pass around a sign-up sheet to record information, such as name, phone and email.
3. Create projects that encourage youth and adult participation.
4. Find a fraternal benefit society in your area. To locate a volunteer center near you, call 1-800-VOLUNTEER or visit www.1-800-volunteer.org.
Nail Down the Details
1. Define specific tasks to be completed, time requirement and deadlines
2. Determine the logistics: locations, supplies needed, transportation
3. Match skills for the members and volunteers to particular aspects of the project.
4. Develop a short orientation or information session for volunteers.
5. Be sure to express appreciation to everyone involved as the project wraps up.
Hold a Kick-off
The purpose is to inspire and encourage volunteers, as well as atract media attention and provide a platform for VIPs.
1. Provide light snacks and refreshment
2. Invite governors, mayor, local, state, and federal legislator and other dignitaries
3. If possible, arrange for a local TV news anchor or other recognizable person to serve as emcee. Invite media and news media kits.
4. Arrange for a professional photographer and/or videographer, if possible.
Handle Logistics
Think ahead, provide information and plan for emergencies
1. Provide directions and maps to the site.
2. Is the site accessible by public transportation? By people with disabilities?
3. Is there a first-aid kit on site? Where is the nearest hospital or medical center?
4. What will volunteers do if it rains?
5. Where are the closest restrooms?
6. Where can volunteers eat lunch? Will water be available thoughout the day?
Plan for a Safe Event
Project Leaders should be observant for potential hazards
1. Look for strings on clothing and ropes on playground equipment. These could result in injury
2. Watch for broken paved areas, uneven boards or ground where people could stumble
3. Carefully pick up sharp object that could cut or scratch a person’s skin
4. Provide masks when working in areas with dangerous fumes or excessive dust
5. Suggest volunteers wear study shoes, not sandals, for better foot protection
Have Fun!
Complete your entire project on JOIN HANDS DAY, and have fun! Be sure to take time afterwards to briefly gather with your project group, share your experiences and celebrate your achievements.
