Camps

November 09, 2009

Great Rivers ACA is Great Group - Keynote Recap

Today's keynote session at the Great Rivers American Camp Association Fall Conference focused on the idea that marketing truly is part of everyone's job no matter what one's professional strengths or weaknesses. While I tend to be high energy and mildly addicted to strangers, I rely on others to tackle the marketing details, timelines and administration. As promised during my workshop I'm posting the PowerPoint slides for attendees to download or share with others in their organization. Feel free to use them to guide a conversation with staff, board members or volunteers who can, certainly, become part of your marketing team. Better yet, I'd love to help your camp or organization develop a "whole team" marketing approach. Contact me to brainstorm ways I can help jumpstart this process.

Download Economy Stinks Keynote

Posted by Jodi Rudick in Camps, Workshop Extras | Permalink | Comments (2) | TrackBack (0)

August 31, 2009

What's Driving Back to School Marketing?

Typically a time to weigh the merits of pens vs. pencils, markers vs. crayons and which after-school program to choose; this year's back-to-school marketing is dripping with a different type of message -- FEAR. Today's AdAge.com features an article: "Swine Flu Fear puts Disinfectant Brands on School Supply List."

So what does this have to do with you? A couple of things -- as you already know, what trends in schools often translates to changes in after-school and recreation programs. Summer camps already know the impact of the real threat of swine flu -- as both a medical and economic malady. "Where kids gather, the flu is sure to spread," the media seems to warn. So, as children, students and athletes return to your programs and head back indoors this fall, consider these three ideas:

Keep lots of over-sized bottles of disinfectant on hand. You can even order half gallon bottles imprinted? How cool would it be to have that sitting on your school nurses desk ALL YEAR LONG? Talk about a good use of limited funds!
Educate children and parents about the preventative measures you have and will be taking to protect children from all types of communicable disease. The CDC (Center for Disease Control) has all sorts of information you can download, print, post and share. They even have PSAs (public service announcements you can post right on your web site) as a measure of goodwill.
Order some personal hand sanitizer (with prices starting at about .25 each there's something for every budget) imprinted with your program name as a wonderful reminder that you are part of the health and safety team in your community. Consider giving these as a back to school gift to teachers, school nurses, parents, students -- just about anyone who has a child or children in their lives. To get some free samples or look into this timely idea call/email andy@advisorsmarketing.com or 1-800-IADVISU (800-423-8478). He's at your service!

Posted by Jodi Rudick in Camps, News to Use, Parks and Recreation, Promotional Power | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)

Technorati Tags: back to school, hand sanitizer, swine flu

July 14, 2009

CBS News Report: Camps Slammed by Swine Flu

Last night Katie Couric featured an extensive story and video called, "Avoiding Swine Flu at Camp" on the impact of the H1N1 (Swine) flu virus on the summer camp season. While many special needs camps chose to err on the side of caution, canceling camp altogether; most camps have opened and are in full swing without incident. However, the report, which featured Blue Star Camp in North Carolina focused on seemingly mild cases of H1N1 which have broken out in their camp communities. They featured nurses taking temperatures and doing "lice checks." (I went to the Blue Star website today and was a little surprised that there wasn't a "front page" response to the news piece squelching some of the anxieties parents might be experiencing as they watched their camp featured on a story about the epidemic flu.)

Myson just returned from Camp Mountain Chai -- a residential camp in the mountains of Southern California. There were no outbreaks of flu or any other illnessess during the two weeks Spencer was at camp. However -- I have to admit -- after watching the report, I was kind of glad Spencer's residential camp season was over without incident. I felt anxious. Partly because the report asks the big question: will we continue to see outbreaks as children return to school in the fall?

So, what's a camp to do?

Educate yourself. Read ACA's latest responses and educational pieces related to the H1N1 Virus here. Besides good information from the health care community there are discussions and videos.

Monitor calls and conversations. You know your parents better than I do. While you never want to create unnessary panic especially, you don't want to ignore a potential problem either. If you are getting even one or two questions or calls regarding the flu, you should probably go on the communications offensive. Keep in mind, that for every question or call that you get about any issue at camp, chances are there are many, many more people (parents, grandparents funders) thinking or fearing the same thing -- but just not making their concerns known. First and foremost let your parents know that you are aware of the H1N1 risk and are taking extra precautions this year (assuming that you are).

Go to the ABC website and watch the video or read the story. Then post a comment at the end of the video confirming the many ways you, as a camp professional, insure that kids stay safe and healthy while in your care. There's power in numbers and it's important for a news outlet as powerful as CBS know that the camp profession is engaged and involved.

Please comment on this story by offering ideas or suggestions to others.

Posted by Jodi Rudick in Camps, Current Affairs, News to Use, Television | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)

Technorati Tags: Camp, H1N1, Swine Flu

July 01, 2009

Are your camps listed?

I recently got a call from someone who had heard me speak at a Camp Conference asking if I had any last minute suggestions to help boost enrollment this summer. After doing a bit of brainstorming related to offering premiums for referrals, attractive discounts for siblings or signing children up for additional weeks of camp, I happened to ask,"Are your camps listed on the popular Camp Directories?" I was surprised that this savvy camp director was unaware of these types of directories and was enthusiastic about their existence.

Often, similar to telephone directories, these on-line directories offer free basic listings. Of course, they also offer many fee based enhanced listings and advertising opportunities. Post a basic listing at the very least and explore paid listing options with a knowledgeable marketing expert. Here are the ones that ranked highest when I did a Google search for Summer Camps. I couldn't help but noticed how very few public and non profit camps are listed on these sites. I'm sure you're welcome. But, these directories can't list you if they don't know you exist. Make yourself known by investing 30 - 60 minutes of your time and listing your camps on these sites:

http://www.summer-daycamps.com

http://www.summercamps.com

http://www.camppage.com

http://www.gocamps.com

And, if you have an opinion about any of these sites or have others to add, please leave a comment below!

Posted by Jodi Rudick in Books, Blogs, Resources, Camps, FREE STUFF | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)

Technorati Tags: Camp directories

June 05, 2009

More applicants than jobs? Here's an idea

I recent discussion on LinkedIn gave me an idea that I thought I'd share. The economy has created a glut of people applying for jobs that previously attracted young, entry-level students or young adults. Now, however, layed-off professionals, un-retirees and other candidates are surprisingly lining up to become camp counselors, maintenance workers and clerical staff. All this is may be happening at the same time your budget and staff are being cut. So, is there anyway to make lemonade out of these economically sour lemons? Here's one ideas...

I suggest offering volunteer (unpaid) positions to qualified applicants who aren't offered paid positions. As most people know, the longer one is out of a job the harder it seems to be to find one. So offering people the chance to "work" even without a salary may be a win-win-win situation. You get good help to supplement your dwindling staff hours, your customers are better served AND "volunteers" can fill avoid holes in employment history times-lines and beef up their resume with new experiences gained at your agency.

Maybe you're already creatively recruiting volunteers at your agency. Share your story below.

Posted by Jodi Rudick in Camps, Parks and Recreation | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)

Technorati Tags: umemployment

May 04, 2009

Celebrities Love Camp

Congratulations to the American Camp Association on its new PSA (public service announcement). "Because of Camp" is engaging and enlightening. The diverse spokespeople tell a great story about the many benefits of camps.

How is your life better "because of camp?"

Posted by Jodi Rudick in Camps, Publicity Tips, Viral Marketing & Social Networks, Voices and Viewpoint | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)

Technorati Tags: American Camp Association, Because of Camp

April 02, 2009

Invasion of the Podcasters

Everyone's going so high tech these days. Last week while speaking at the American Camp Association's Midstate's Conference I was given a tiny iPod-looking thing which turned out to be a tiny digital recorder, Then I was reminded that my workshop, Fundwriting Letters That Get Results, was being recorded and would be made available post conference as a Podcast via the ACA website. Of course, I had agreed to this recording months in advance and was thrilled at the opportunity to try something new -- all in the name of the greater camp community.

So sure enough, just days after the final curtain fell on the 2009 Midstates Conference, my session is now posted for all to access. Now you can listen on your computer or your iPod, cell phone or mp3 player.And while the podcasts are raw and unedited, it still is a very cool technology allowing those unable to attend a conference to stay up on the latest information.

But, because I aim to please, I'm going to go one step further. As a blog reader, not only can you link to the recording here; you can also download the handouts for the session below. Now that truly is almost as good as being there.

So go ahead and listen to your heart's (and ears') content by following this link. There's lots of other great sessions from the conference there, too.

To get the most out of your podcast I recommend printing and following along with these high content handouts. Download Fundwriting_2009_Enhanced

If you do decide to listen, please let us know.

Posted by Jodi Rudick in Camps, FREE STUFF, Fundraising and Sponsorship, Web/Tech, Workshop Extras | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)

Technorati Tags: ACA Midstates, American Camp Association, Fundraising, iPod

March 18, 2009

Make Me an Offer I Can't Refuse

The American Camp Association's Tri State Conference is a highlight of my spring speaking schedule. I love the east coast honesty, passion and confidence. This year I participated in a pre-conference event aimed specifically at those in the day camp business, especially those in parks and recreation. During regular conference hours I am thrilled to present two new programs, both which address critical marketing strategies for these tough economic times.

For the first time ever, I've put together a program that focuses solely on one very important part of developing more effective marketing materials -- the offer or call to action. I'm happy to share the enhanced version of these handouts from this session for those who attended the session as well as those who with they had.

This document includes more than 60 specific compelling offers to inspire your prospects to try, buy and re-buy your products, camps and services. By incorporating just one of these ideas into your next marketing campaign you will likely motivate those that might need a friendly nudge (or a really big push) to check you out.

Download Make Me an Offer with Definitions

After reviewing the list, please add a few of your own! Sharing is good for the soul.

Posted by Jodi Rudick in Camps, Promotional Power, Workshop Extras | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)

Technorati Tags: marketing offers, tri-state camp conference

February 03, 2009

Help Campers Have a Great Time at Summer Camp

Use this article (as-is or edited to better fit your camp and campers) as a wonderful addition to your website OR in your get-ready-for-camp packets. Whether you stay in touch with campers after registration via mail, phone or email - this type of article is a wonderful way to improve the camp experience for everyone involved.

How to Have a Good Time at Sleep Away Camp

So you just registered for a sleep-away summer camp, But you have never been to one? This guide will help you have a great time, and make new friends.

Steps

Visit the camp website; it provides valuable information regarding rules, cabins, and what you do at camp. If there are any free camp brochures, those are useful too. If you know anyone who goes to (or has gone to) the same camp, ask them questions.
Look at the packing list, and bring what it lists, and maybe even more. It is actually not a bad idea to "overpack". At camp, because you will be living in a cabin with several other people, things get lost and swapped around quite frequently.
Pack all of your gear in a suitcase, duffel bag, and a backpack to bring onto the camp bus. The camp bus is very fun - it is a good way to meet people ahead of time, and many of the kids who ride the bus are long-time campers who can answer your questions. If you are riding with your parents, the drive is a good time to relax and pull yourself together.
Once you get to camp, go into your cabin and claim a bunk! The top is very good if you like space, but the bottom is warmer. Sometimes there are beds already set up for you, and in that case there's not much you can do about it.
Try to be friends with the people in your cabin, and be nice to them. You will be living with them for the next 2+ weeks, and there are bound to be people who you click with. People who are in your cabin at camp can be your lifelong friends if you give them a chance.
Always try to make new friends as you never know how nice people can be unless you try! There will be chances to meet kids outside of your cabin and you can make dozens of long-time pals this way. It is good to know a variety of people at camp.
Participate in the activities, and don't be afraid to try something new. There will be plenty of new experiences at camp, and you are definitely going to like at least a few of them! Everybody has activities that they like and dislike, so find things that you enjoy.
Try getting a camp boyfriend/girlfriend. They can sit with you at lunch and help you with things, plus be a best friend when you need it. Because summer camp involves hundreds of people, it's a (little-known) fact that no matter who you are, someone will like you. Honestly.
Socialize! This cannot be stressed enough. Camp is fun because of the people you experience it with.
On the last day of camp, exchange e-mails and AIM names with all your camp friends, so you can keep in touch. The camp might send out a directory too, which will be useful.
Behave on the bus ride home, and don't think because it's your last day you can be bad. Don't be fooled - the counselors will find a way to punish you on the last day if they need to.

Tips

Don't hide an injury, it will get worse and you could be seriously hurt. Most camps have trained nurses who can help.
Be friends with a lot of people so next year, at the same camp, you'll have a head start. The more you go back, the more prepared you will be.
If you get homesick, write to your parents and they might send you a care package. Most camps let you call or email your parents regularly.
To prevent getting homesick, bring a stuffed animal or a picture of your family from home.
When you're packing, don't throw everything into your bags, neatly fold them and put them in. Things will get plenty messy over the summer.
HAVE FUN!!!

Warnings

Don't get yourself kicked out of camp. Everybody likes to pull pranks now and then, but getting sent home early is nothing to smile about.
Be nice to people.
Be careful!
Don't sleep on the top bunk if you move a lot while you sleep, as some camps don't have guard rails!

Related wikiHows

Article provided by wikiHow, a collaborative writing project to build the world's largest, highest quality how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Have a Good Time at Sleep Away Camp. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.

Posted by Jodi Rudick in Camps, Customer Service | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)

January 31, 2009

Twitter - Boring or Brilliant?

I was chatting (electronically) with a virtual business buddy about the value of Twitter. I admitted that I think Twitter is a fantastic tool for public agencies needing to keep citizens informed. I also like it as a tool for seasonal businesses, like camps, wishing to stay in touch with campers, staff and parents. But, my use of Twitter is boooooring. If you must, you can see what I mean for yourself. Don't all rush at once!

If you're unfamiliar with microblogging sites like Twitter, think of it as a walkie talkie in which anyone who wants can tune into your "frequency." Twitter post's or Tweets very short -- no more than 140 characters) and offer the opportunity for quick updates. As a camp you might look to Twitter as a great tool to keep campers, staff and parents abreast of facility improvements, real-time registration information, changes in staff and even newsworthy weather that might be impacting camp.

I thank my on-line friend, Ron Graham who, in the blink of an eye, pointed me to the following article by Community and Social Media Blogger, Chris Brogan, which covers "50 Ideas on Using Twitter."

Here's an excerpt from the article

Ideas About WHAT to Tweet

Instead of answering the question, “What are you doing?”, answer the question, “What has your attention?”
Have more than one twitterer at the company. People can quit. People take vacations. It’s nice to have a variety.
When promoting a blog post, ask a question or explain what’s coming next, instead of just dumping a link.
Ask questions. Twitter is GREAT for getting opinions.
Follow interesting people. If you find someone who tweets interesting things, see who she follows, and follow her.
Tweet about other people’s stuff. Again, doesn’t directly impact your business, but makes us feel like you’re not “that guy.”
When you DO talk about your stuff, make it useful. Give advice, blog posts, pictures, etc.
Share the human side of your company. If you’re bothering to tweet, it means you believe social media has value for human connections. Point us to pictures and other human things.
Don’t toot your own horn too much. (Man, I can’t believe I’m saying this. I do it all the time. - Side note: I’ve gotta stop tooting my own horn).
Or, if you do, try to balance it out by promoting the heck out of others, too.

Read the entire article here...

HOW ARE YOU USING TWITTER IN YOUR AGENCY? DO TELL...

Posted by Jodi Rudick in Books, Blogs, Resources, Camps, Ideas to Steal, Parks and Recreation, Viral Marketing & Social Networks | Permalink | Comments (2) | TrackBack (0)

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