A BEGINNER’S GUIDE TO THE YOUTH ACTION GROUP 5 S TEPS TO S TART A S UCCESSFUL Y OUTH A CTION G ROUP M ADE
BY
Y OUTH FOR Y OUTH
2010 E D I T I ON
1
TABLE OF CONTENTS S ECTION I: HISTORY OF RED CROSS RED CRESCENT MOVEMENT H IS TO R Y O F R E D C R O S S R ED C R E S C EN T MO V E M EN T
7
A H IS TO R Y T IM E LIN E O F TH E MO V E M EN T
8
TH E G E N E V A C O N V EN TIO N S
10
R ED C R O S S , R E D C R ES C EN T A N D R ED C R Y S T A L E MB LE MS
12
TH E R ED C R O S S R E D C R ES C E N T M O V E ME N T
13
R ED C R O S S FU N D A M E N TA L P R IN C IP LE S
14
H U MA N ITA R IA N V A LU ES
15
S ECTION II: 5 STEPS TO START A YOUTH ACTION GROUP INTRODUCTION TO YOUTH ACTION GROUPS W H O S H O U LD R E A D T H IS ?
17
TH E C A N A D IA N R ED C R O S S M IS S O N S TA TE M EN T
17
TH E Y O U TH V IS IO N S TA TE ME N T
17
W H A T IS A Y O U TH A C TIO N G R O U P ?
18
STEP 1:
H OW
TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE
R ED C ROSS
1.1
C O N TA C T LO C A L C A N A D IA N R E D C R O S S O F F IC E
22
1.2
A TTE N D M EE T IN G W ITH R ED C R O S S
23
1.3
LE A R N A B O U T TH E Y O U TH A C TIO N G R O U P M A N D A TE
24
1.4
A TTE N D IN TR O D U C TIO N TO R E D C R O S S WO R K S H O P
24
2
STEP 2:
H OW
TO INTRODUCE THE YOUTH ACTION GROUP TO
YOUR SCHOOL
2.1
G E T A TE A C H ER A D V IS O R
25
2.2
R EC R U IT N E W M EM B ER S
26
2.3
G E T P E R M IS S IO N FR O M TH E S C H O O L
26
2.4
A D V ER TIS E Y O U R G R O U P
27
STEP 3:
H OW
TO RUN YOUR FIRST MEETING
3.1
IN TR O D U C E TH E R ED C R O S S
28
3.2
C O M M ITM E N T
31
3.3
V O LU N TE ER FO R M
33
3.4
R E P O R T IN G S Y S T EM
33
STEP 4:
H OW
TO RECRUIT YOUR FIRST EXECUTIVES
4.1
E X EC U TIV E S TR U C TU R E A N D J O B D ES C R IP T IO N S
34
4.2
E X EC U TIV E A P P L IC A T IO N FO R M
36
4.3
A G E N D A FO R F IR S T EX EC U TIV E M E E TI N G
38
STEP 5:
H OW
TO PLAN YOUR FIRST EVENT
5.1
P LA N TH E F IR S T A C TIV I TY W ITH TH E R ED C R O S S
40
5.2
C H O O S E A P A S T A C TIV I TY
41
5.3
A S K FO R R ES O U R C ES
42
5.4
E V E N T P LA N N IN G S H E E T
42
3
S ECTION III: M AINTAINING YOUR GROUP P LANNING
YOUR FIRST YEAR
C A LE N D A R
-
R E D C R O S S S P EC IA L D A TE S
44
S U C C ES S FU L P A S T A C TIV IT IE S
46
R EG U LA R M EE T IN G S W ITH A C TIO N I TE MS
48
P LANNING
FOR SUCCESSION S
W H Y IS I T S O IM P O R T A N T TO P LA N FO R S U C C ES S IO N S ?
49
G E T TE A C H ER A D V IS O R
49
G E T N E W E X EC U TIV E S
50
G E T N E W M E MB E R S
50
S ECTION IV: G OING TO U NIVERSITY ? O V ER V IE W O F U N IV ER S ITY G R O U P S
52
H O W TO J O IN
54
A PPENDIX : ME MB ER S IG N U P
56
Y E A R - E N D R E P O R T IN G FO R M
57
Y E A R P LA N N IN G C A LE N D A R ( E X A MP LE )
59
S A MP LE E V E N T TIM E L IN E
61
TH E FO U R S TE P MO D E L FO R EV EN TS
62
4
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS This handbook is the result of the collaborative work by youth volunteers, teacher advisors and Canadian Red Cross staff in the Region of York.
Part of this handbook is adapted from the Ontario Zone Youth Group Handbook and the Introduction to Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement Training Manual.
5
SECTION I: HISTORY OF THE RED CROSS RED CRESCENT M OVEMENT • A H ISTORY T IME L INE
OF THE
M OVEMENT
• T HE G ENEVA C ONVENTIONS • R ED C ROSS , R ED C RESCENT • T HE C OMPONENTS M OVEMENT
OF THE
AND
R ED C RYSTAL E MBLEMS
R ED C ROSS R ED C RESCENT
• R ED C ROSS F UNDAMENTAL P RINCIPLES 6
HISTORY OF RED CROSS RED CRESCENT MOVEMENT The Movement began with the actions and ideas of one man, Henry Dunant, a Swiss businessman who was travelling to Italy in 1859 to meet with Napoleon III during the Franco-Prussian war. On June 24, 1859, the Austrian and French armies— over 200,000 men altogether—clashed in Solferino, a town located in Northern Italy. After 16 hours of fighting, the two armies retreated, leaving 40,000 people laying dead or wounded on the battlefield. That same evening, Swiss national Henry Dunant arrived in the region for business. Dunant was appalled at the suffering he witnessed as he passed through the battlefield at Solferino, and with the help of some local townspeople, organized a relief effort to care for the thousands of wounded soldiers. Dunant published a book, "A Memory of Solferino", which recorded his experiences. In his book, he proposed that a neutral society of civilian volunteers be trained to provide medical assistance in times of conflict. With four other friends in Geneva, Dunant formed a committee and invited other European countries to join. Representatives from 16 countries met in 1863 and the International Red Cross was born. This committee grew to officially become the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in 1876.
7
A H ISTORY T IMELINE O F T HE M OVEMENT
1859
•Swiss businessman Henry Dunant witnesses the Battle of Solferino in Italy.
1862
•Henry Dunant publishes his book A Memory of Solferino, Solferino bringing wide public attention to the suffering of war and his idea to create a neutral medical service for the battlefield guaranteed by an international treaty among nations.
1863
•The Red Cross is officially created, as International Committee for Relief of Military Wounded (which becomes the International Committee of the Red Cross in 1876).
The Geneva International Conference also establishes national committees.
1864
•The First Geneva Convention (for the amelioration of the condition of the wounded and sick in armed forces in the field) is adopted, including recognition of the Red Cross on a white background as the protective emblem of military medical services.
1876
•The Red Crescent is first used as a protective emblem during war by the Ottoman Empire in the war between Russia and Turkey.
1885
•The Red Cross emblem is first used in Canada at the Battle of Batoche during the Riel Rebellion, led by George Ryerson, eventual founder of the Canadian Red Cross.
1896
•George Ryerson creates the Canadian Red Cross as the first overseas branch of the British Red Cross.
1899
•The The principles of the 1864 Geneva Convention are adapted to maritime warfare.
1901
•Henry Dunant is named the co-winner of the first Nobel Peace Prize (with Frederic Passy, founder of the first French Peace Society).
1909
•The Canadian Red Cross Society is officially created with The passing of the Canadian Red Cross Act in Parliament.
1919
•The League of Red Cross Societies is formed. •The ICRC recognizes the Canadian Red Cross as an independent National Society of the Red Cross, thus allowing the CRC to join the League.
8
1923
•The The League responds as a body for the first time in an international natural disaster,, when an earthquake kills 200,000 people in Japan.
1929
•The The Geneva Convention of 1906 (relative to the protection of the wounded and sick in armed forces in the field) is revised, and for the first time, includes the treatment of prisoners of war. •The red crescent is officially adopted as an additional emblem under International Humanitarian Law.
1944
•The ICRC is awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for a second time as a tribute to its Humanitarian activities during World War II. It also won in 1917 after World War I.
1949
•The Modern Geneva Conventions are adopted, concerning amelioration of the condition of wounded, sick and shipwrecked armed forces (I, II), treatment of prisoners of war (III), and protection of civilians in time of war (IV).
1963
•The ICRC and the League jointly win the Nobel Peace Prize on the occasion of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement’s 100th anniversary.
1965
•The seven Fundamental Principles are formally proclaimed by the Movement.
1977
•The two Additional Protocols to the Geneva Conventions are adopted, strengthening the protection of civilians and others during international conflict (I), and expanding protection guaranteed to nonnon international conflict (II).
1991
•The The League (1919) officially changes its name to the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies.
1997
•The Seville Agreement formalizes the specific mandates and responsibilities of each component of the Movement in times of armed conflict and disasters, including which one acts as lead agency in a given situation.
2004 2004-05
•The The Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement response to the Asian earthquake / tsunami becomes the largest relief operation ever.
2005
•An additional emblem, the red crystal,, is adopted by States Party to the Geneva Conventions in a new Additional Protocol (III).
9
T HE G ENEVA C ONVENTIONS The Geneva Conventions consist of treaties formulated in Geneva, Switzerland that set the standards for international law for humanitarian concerns. The conventions were the results of efforts by Henri Dunant, who was motivated by the horrors of war he witnessed at the Battle of Solferino. In times of war, certain humanitarian rules must be observed, even with regard to the enemy. These rules are set out in the Geneva Conventions of 1949 and their Additional Protocols of 1977. There are four Geneva Conventions and two Additional Protocols. The 1949 Geneva Conventions are founded on the idea of respect for the individual and his dignity. Persons not directly taking part in hostilities and those put out of action through sickness, injury, captivity or any other cause must be respected and protected against the effects of war; those who suffer must be aided and cared for without discrimination. The First Geneva Convention for “the amelioration of the condition of the wounded and sick in armed forces in the field� was signed on August 22, 1864 and comprised ten articles. The Convention was a response to the request Dunant made in his book, A Memory of Solferino, for the protection of those no longer engaged in combat. The Second Geneva Convention covered the treatment of wounded, sick and shipwrecked members of armed forces at sea. It was written and adopted at the 1949 diplomatic conference held in Geneva, Switzerland. The Third Geneva Convention refers to the treatment of prisoners of war. It was adopted in 1929 as an extension to the rights guaranteed by the Hague Convention of 1907. It was revised in 1949, with the modified form adopted on August 12, 1949 by the Diplomatic Conference for the Establishment of International Conventions for the Protection of Victims of War. The Fourth Geneva Convention relates to the protection of civilians during times of war and under any occupation by a foreign power. For example, collective punishments are a war crime. Article 33 states: "No protected person may be punished for an offence he or she has not personally committed," and "collective penalties and likewise all measures of intimidation or of terrorism are prohibited." 10
The law of armed conflict/International Humanitarian Law applies similar protections to an internal conflict. Common Article 3 of the Fourth Geneva Conventions of 1949 requires fair trials for all individuals before punishments. The two Additional Protocols to the Geneva Conventions were added in 1977. These Additional Protocols extend protection to any person affected by an armed conflict. Furthermore, they stipulate that the parties to the conflict and the combatants shall not attack civilian populations and civilian objects and shall conduct their military operation in conformity with the recognized rules and bylaws of humanity.
NOTE: The Geneva Conventions are the precursor of modern International Humanitarian Law. International Humanitarian law also consists of other treaties, conventions and agreements around weapons control, chemical and biological warfare, anti-personnel landmines (1997 Ottawa Treaty), exploding bullets, blinding lasers, military recruitment age (2000 Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child), and criminal justice (1998 Rome Statute on the International Criminal Court). In summary, IHL regulates the treatment of the wounded, prohibits attacks against civilians, the use of certain weapons, and ensures the protection of non-combatants, Red Cross/Red Crescent emblem and medical personnel, and prisoners of war.
11
R ED C ROSS , R ED C RESCENT A ND R ED C RYSTAL E MBLEMS The Red Cross emblem officially appeared in 1864. The Red Cross on a white background is the reverse of the Swiss flag and was chosen as a a sign of identification and protection to personnel, material and facilities used to care for sick and wounded in times of armed conflict. In 1929, the Red Crescent was officially approved for use in Muslim countries (used in 22 countries), mainly becau because se the cross was perceived to have Christian connotations. There was much controversy, but both symbols are official and both have the same status within the movement. A national society must use one of the official symbols to be officially recognized by tthe he Red Cross Movement. In December 2005 2005, the Red Crystal was adopted, allowing for national societies who do not wish to use the Red Cross or Red Crescent emblems to be recognized and admitted to the Movement. This consolidates the Movement's universality universality.
Red Cross
Red Crescent
Red Crystal
This Protocol provides for new flexibility, allowing national societies to include, if they wish, a combination of emblems recognized by the Geneva eneva Conventions inside the Red Crystal rystal for their identification. The Red Crystal can also stand on its own.
12
T HE R ED C ROSS R ED C RESCENT M OVEMENT THREE COMPONENTS The Red Cross Red Crescent Movement provides humanitarian relief assistance to the most vulnerable throughout the world. This is made possible through the work of three separate entities. 1. The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), which responds in times of conflict. 2. The International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (the International Federation), which responds to natural disasters and crises related to displacement. 3. The National Societies of the Red Cross/Red Crescent may assist the ICRC or the International Federation in their efforts. The National Societies also carry out their own programs meeting the needs of the local community. The International Committee of the Red Cross and the International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies have been described as the two heads of the Red Cross Red Crescent Movement. The National Societies have been described as the many arms.
13
R ED C ROSS F UNDAMENTAL P RINCIPLES HUMANITY Born of a desire to bring assistance without discrimination to the wounded on the battlefield, the Movement endeavours, in its international and national capacity, to prevent and alleviate human suffering wherever it may be found. Its purpose is to protect life and health and to ensure respect for the human being. It promotes mutual understanding, friendship, cooperation and lasting peace amongst all peoples.
IMPARTIALITY It makes no discrimination as to nationality, race, religious beliefs, class or political opinions. It endeavours to relieve the suffering of individuals, being guided solely by their needs, and to give priority to the most urgent cases of distress.
NEUTRALITY In order to continue to enjoy the confidence of all, the Movement may not take sides in hostilities or engage at any time in controversies of a political, racial, religious or ideological nature.
INDEPENDENCE The Movement is independent. The National Societies, while auxiliaries in the humanitarian services of their governments and subject to the laws of their respective countries, must always maintain their autonomy so that they may be able at all times to act in accordance with the principles of the Movement.
VOLUNTARY SERVICE It is a voluntary relief Movement not prompted in any manner by desire for gain.
UNITY There can be only one Red Cross or Red Crescent Society in any one country. It must be open to all. It must carry on its humanitarian work throughout its territory.
UNIVERSALITY The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, in which all Societies have equal status and share equal responsibilities and duties in helping each other, is worldwide.
14
H UMANITARIAN V ALUES The values that support the humanitarian action of the Movement were defined by the Federation in its Strategy 2010 document, and are identified as follows: •
Protection of life, health and human dignity
•
Respect for the human being
•
Non-discrimination on the basis of nationality, race, gender, religious beliefs, class or political opinions
•
Mutual understanding, friendship, cooperation and lasting peace among all people
•
Voluntary service
Overall, these values are not different than the Fundamental Principles they helped to forge. In fact, the Fundamental Principles of the Red Cross Red Crescent Movement have derived from values shared by human beings everywhere over time, both individually and collectively and we feel their presence embedded within the Fundamental Principles. Sometimes, people express similar or complementary values through other concepts such as compassion, active acceptance, empathy, inclusiveness, generosity, hope and global citizenship, to name just a few. Similarly, among the seven Fundamental Principles, the Principle of Humanity illustrates the very spirit of the Movement. Right from the Movement’s origin, the Principle of Humanity aimed at providing relief without discrimination to the wounded on the battlefield. Discrimination-free Humanity means that no negative distinction may be made between people of a different class, nor on the basis of any other criteria.
15
SECTION II: 5 STEPS TO START A YOUTH ACTION GROUP I NTRODUCT ION
TTO
Y O UTH A CTIO N G ROUPS
STEP 1:
H OW
STEP 2:
H OW TO I NTRODUCE Y OUR S CHOOL
STEP 3:
H OW
TO
R UN Y OUR F IRST M EET ING
STEP 4:
H OW
TO
R ECRUIT Y O UR F IRST E XECUTIVES
STEP 5:
H OW
TO
P LAN Y OUR F IRST E VENT
TO GET IN
T OUCH
WITH T HE
THE
R ED C RO SS
Y OUTH A CTIO N G ROUP
TO
16
INTRODUCTION TO YOUTH ACTION GROUPS W HO S HOULD R EAD T HIS ? If you are a high school student, teacher, or adult who is passionate about making a difference and wants to motivate others to do so, this Youth Action Group Guide is for you. This is a very simple guide with step-by-step instructions that will teach you how to start and successfully run a Red Cross Youth Action Group at your own high school. With hard work and perseverance, you will be able to establish a successful Red Cross Youth Action Group. Your school and its students will discover new possibilities through your Youth Action Group and will be the voices of the next generation.
T HE C ANADIAN R ED C ROSS M ISSION S TATEMENT To improve the lives of the vulnerable by mobilizing the power of humanity in Canada and around the world
T HE Y OUTH V ISION S TATEMENT Youth Action Groups mobilize the power of humanity by educating Canadians and undertaking activities in response to local and global humanitarian issues.
17
W HAT IS A Y OUTH A CTION G ROUP ? P URPOSE A Youth Action Group is run by high school students like you. The purpose of a Youth Action Group is to raise awareness on humanitarian is issues sues and take action as well as empower the next generation of humanitarian leaders.
E XAMPLES Red Cross Youth Action Groupss play an important part in furthering the work of the Red Cross/Red Crescent Movement and in engaging youth on important domestic aand nd international humanitarian issues. Together, the Canadian Red Cross and Youth Action Groups Group work hand in hand to understand and apply fundamental principles as they respond to various humanitarian issues in Canada and around the world. There are many examples of Youth Action Group involvements. Humanitarian Issues Promotion
First Aid & CPR
Youth Action Group
Respect ED
Youth Programs
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E XAMPLES O F Y OUTH A CTION G ROUPS
IN
A CTION
Activity
Description
Humanitarian Issues Promotion
•
Fun and exciting two-day youth leadership workshop
•
Students learn about the different humanitarian issues in the world through experiential activities and information
•
Students take step towards becoming Humanitarian Issues Promotion youth facilitators
•
Humanitarian workers speak of their experiences and difficulties on the field
•
Especially spectacular because of the level of danger and excitement some humanitarian workers go through
•
Astonishing statistics and issues in Sudan
•
Many activities are run to show the humanitarian crisis in the nation.
•
At the end of the week, all the students know the level of urgency in Sudan
Humanitarian Speaker Series
Sudan Week of Action
19
These are just a few of some great examples that have worked well and with every new Youth Action Group,, even more great activities and events are created.
S TRUCTURE A Youth Action Group consists of four key roles: 1. Youth Leaders 2. Youth Volunteers 3. Teacher Advisors / Adult Advisors 4. Red Cross Staff Member It is structured around the concept of mutual respect. Therefore, everyone in this group has an equally important role to play, as shown by the diagram below. Everyone is encouraged to take an active role.
Red Cross Staff Member
Teacher Advisors / Adult Advisors
Youth Action Group
Youth Leaders
Youth Volunteers
20
S UMMARY
OF
R OLES
AND
R ESPONSIBILITIES
Role
Responsibility
Youth Leaders (Chairs and Executives)
•
Approach Red Cross Staff member and initiate the Youth Action Group
•
Organize events, hold meetings, and recruit volunteers
•
Keep in touch with the local Canadian Red Cross
•
Give feedback and suggestions to youth leaders.
•
Help youth leaders organize and run events or meetings
•
Take on responsibilities in the absence of a youth leader
Youth Volunteers
Teacher Advisor •
Keep Youth Action Group within school rules
•
Advise on planned activities
•
Assist in conflict resolution
•
Participate in selection of executives
•
Provide suggestions and guidance
•
Motivate Youth Action Groups as a role model
•
Assist Youth Action Groups with running events and activities
•
Keep Youth Action Groups on task and within boundaries of the fundamental principles and guidelines
•
Assist youth leaders and volunteers in starting the Youth Action Group
•
They are always open to suggestions and feedback
•
Provide ongoing support to all groups
OR Adult Advisor
Red Cross Staff Member
21
STEP 1: HOW TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE RED C ROSS S ECTION O VERVIEW S TEP 1.1
C ONTACT L OCAL C ANADIAN R ED C ROSS O FFICE
S TEP 1.2
A TTEND M EETING R ED C ROSS
WITH
S TEP 1.3
L EARN A BOUT M ANDATE
Y OUTH A CTION G ROUP
S TEP 1.4
A TTEND I NTRODUCTION
THE
C ANADIAN
TO
R ED C ROSS W ORKSHOP
‘If you learn a skill without learning the way, you have learned nothing’ - The Book of Five Rings
This section addresses the first step in starting a youth action group – getting in touch with the Canadian Red Cross. You will be guided by the Canadian Red Cross through continuous support and mentorship.
1.1 C ONTACT L OCAL C ANADIAN R ED C ROSS O FFICE Contact your local Canadian Red Cross office and tell them you wish to start a Youth Action Group. The following are some general contact numbers for you to call, depending on where you live.
22
Region
Address
Contact
Ontario Zone
5700 Cancross Court Mississauga, Ontario L5R 3E9
Tel: (905) 890-1000 Fax: (905) 890-1008
York Branch
13311 Yonge Street, Suite 204 Richmond Hill, ON L4E 3L6
Tel: (905) 830-9565 or Tel: 1-800-361-9448 Fax: (905) 895-3747
Guelph- Wellington Branch
15 Yarmouth Street Guelph, ON N1H 4G2
Tel: (519) 836-3523 Fax: (519) 836-7353
Toronto Region
21 Randolph Avenue Toronto, Ontario M6P 4G4
Tel: (416) 480-2500 Fax: (416) 480-2777
Hamilton Branch
400 King Street East Hamilton, ON L8N 1C3
Tel: (905) 522-8485 Fax: (905) 522-2826
Niagara Region Branch
211 Church St St. Catharines, ON L2R 3E8
Tel: (905) 680-4099 Toll Free Number: 1 888 835-3073
york-region@redcross.ca
http://www.redcross.ca/article.asp?id=136&tid=00
1.2 A TTEND M EETING W ITH C ANADIAN R ED C ROSS When you are thinking about starting a Youth Action Group, it is mandatory to attend a meeting with the Canadian Red Cross Branch Youth Action Group to see current projects and to get a real feel for the atmosphere of the Red Cross. Then, you might want to become more involved and start the process of creating one in your own school! To attend the meeting, call your Region’s coordinator and inquire about location and time. When you go, be ready to be enthralled by 23
the various projects youths are working on. There is something for everyone.
1.3 L EARN A BOUT THE Y OUTH A CTION G ROUP M ANDATE The Youth Action Group has been a tool that can be used as the voice of the students and is a forum for youth development through which youth are recruited, trained, and organized in support of the Red Cross/Red Crescent Movement in conjunction with Branch support.
1.4 A TTEND I NTRODUCTION TO R ED C ROSS W ORKSHOP The final step you must take to start your Youth Action Group is to attend the Introduction to Red Cross/Red Crescent Workshop. This is a mandatory workshop for all volunteers to acquaint them with the International Red Cross/Red Crescent Movement. All executives are expected to attend. (See flyer)
24
STEP 2: HOW TO INTRODUCE THE Y OUTH A CTION G ROUP TO Y OUR S CHOOL S ECTION O VERVIEW S TEP 2.1
G ET
S TEP 2.2
R ECRUIT N EW M EMBERS
S TEP 2.3
G ET P ERMISSION
S TEP 2.4
A DVERTISE Y OUR G ROUP
A
T EACHER A DVISOR
FROM THE
S CHOOL
Section 2 is an overview of how to introduce a new Youth Action Group into your school. It outlines how to recruit a teacher advisor, other students and focuses on the fundamentals necessary in beginning a Youth Action Group.
2.1 G ET A T EACHER A DVISOR In order for a Youth Action Group to function, a teacher advisor is required. In short, the role of which a teacher advisor plays, involves the oversight of the Youth Action Group and its responsibilities within the school. He/she should be approached with a prepared proposition of activities, mandates, and goals. Using the proposal as a guide more so than a strict plan, it can be used to expand on the set ideas and develop interest in the Red Cross project. Once a teacher agrees to become a teacher advisor for the Youth Action Group they must understand their responsibilities. An arranged meeting with the Red Cross will help clarify all areas of inquiry. 25
Prepare a proposal to present to a teacher. Include information such as description, purpose, goals and activities
Approach a teacher with the proposal and expand on the set of ideas creating interest in your goals.
Arrange a meeting to clarify the responsibilities of a teacher advisor and sign off on the idea.
2.2 R ECRUIT N EW M EMBERS A common ommon question at this point is “how do I get people to join?� join The answer, luckily, is just as simple. Word of mouth is a very effective method of spreading news and just as useful when trying to recruit members into your cause. Meet new people, talk to your friends and make use of the morning announcements/events as well as posters and flyers. lyers.
2.3 G ET P ERMISSION FROM THE S CHOOL To get permission to start a Red Cross Youth Action Group within a school,, you must acquire the approval of the student council and school principle. Here is a template in which you should take t in order to obtain in approval.
26
Preparation • Prepare what you are about to show the student council and principal.
Show time • Show them why starting a youth group would be an appealing idea. • Give them reasons such as how it would help towards the school's image.
Conclude the meeting • Try your best to convince them to approve, and thank them for their time.
2.4 A DVERTISE Y OUR G ROUP In order to attract the attention of your teachers and peers to recognize Red Cross, posters and announcements are very helpful. There are also many other techniques to attract members which include handouts and wor word of mouth.
27
STEP 3: HOW TO RUN YOUR FIRST M EETING S ECTION O VERVIEW S TEP 3.1
I NTRODUCE S TEP 1.4)
S TEP 3.2
C OMMITMENT
S TEP 3.3
V OLUNTEER F ORM
S TEP 3.4
R EPORTING S YSTEM
THE
C ANADIAN R ED C ROSS (B ASED
ON
The first meeting is usually a get-to-know what the Canadian Red Cross is all about and also to meet new people. Generally, most people will be unsure and uneasy at first and the goal is to clear up facts about the Canadian Red Cross. This meeting is to provide a fun, interactive environment that empowers and motivates interested youth to get involved.
3.1 I NTRODUCE T HE C ANADIAN R ED C ROSS For your first meeting, you will need an agenda to be prepared. Have this done a few days to a week done in advanced so your teacher/staff advisor can approve of it. It is important that you introduce the Red Cross (International, Canadian and Branch) as well as the fundamental principles in this meeting. An example template of an agenda is shown below:
28
A GENDA F OR T HE F IRST M EETING Introduction • Quickly introduce the staff and core group. IceBreakers • Helps break the uneasiness amongst the group • Allows people to get to know each other The Red Cross • Orientation of the Red Cross (International, Canada and Branch) • Presentation Format (Videos, Powerpoints, Speeches, Activities) • Ensure Fundamental Principles have been presented and discussed Youth Group Information • Explain how it started, what it does and what it plans to do Commitment • Explain how it is important to be committed • Expectations (eg. Attendance) • Being part of the group is rewarding but requires work Follow Follow-up • When the next meeting will be Wrap Wrap-Up • Conclude the meeting • Allow members oppuritunty to sign up
29
I CEBREAKER E X AMPLES Icebreakers help everyone get to know each other’s name. Also, icebreakers are fun and interactive. There are many types of icebreakers and here is an example of one. Ball Tossing Throw a ball to someone and call out their name, then that person will toss the ball to someone else and call out their name. For more excitement, increase speed and number of balls being thrown.
Person A Person B
Person C
Person E
Person D
For more icebreaker ideas, please check online, there are a mutiltude of possible online icebreakers you can check out.
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R ED C ROSS P RESENTATION I DEAS • • •
•
PowerPoint o Used to enhance a presentation or display visuals Activities o Interactive activities that involve everyone Speech o Motivating speech can be made on the information of the Canadian Red Cross o Mention important facts and ask questions Videos o A great way to promote the history of Red Cross is through the video “A Story of an Idea.” This video and others can be obtained from your Local Canadian Red Cross Office.
Notes: • Try a combination of all four techniques • Contact Local Branch for assistance or materials you may need • Try not to make this meeting too long, less than 1 hour o Take Attendance and follow up o Thank your club for their attention and time in attending this meeting • You may want to get some friends to help you with this meeting if your club does not have an executive team
3.2 C OMMITMENT Your commitment is extremely important in running a Red Cross club/branch. The Canadian Red Cross is built on a foundation of volunteers such as yourselves. The Canadian Red Cross has developed responsibilities, rules and attendance standards for each member. Being part of a Youth Action Group can be rewarding but it also takes work and commitment.
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R ESPONSIBILIT IES – H OW M ANY H OURS , H OW M ANY A CT IVIT IES It is vital that you and your group dedicate two to five hours a month planning or promoting activities of the Red Cross. Activities ctivities must be run throughout oughout the course of the year and the number of activities should increase according to the three three-year year plan below.
S AMPLE T HREE Y EAR P LAN
Year 1 • One small activity during the first half of the year • Another small activity during the second half • One appeal or humanitarian issues activity • Contact your Regional Youth Councillor and/or Zone Youth Councillor to arrange a meeting to walk you through the manual Year 2 • Two small activities (one during each half of the year) • One large activity planned during the first half of the year and implemented during the second half • Two Appeal or humanitarian issues activities Year 3 • Four activities • Three youth/humanitarian/appeal related activities
For event and activities, they can follow the Canadian Red Cross calendar of events such as Sudan Week of A Action, ction, Landmines/Cluster Munitions Campaign OR they can be something general that Red Cross does all year long. An example would be the Malaria Bites campaign.
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M EMBERSHIP R EQUIREMENTS •
Members must not miss two meetings in a row
•
Youth action required to hold at least one full member meeting per month
A TTENDANCE Meeting attendance is an important and vital in managing a Youth Action Group. Youth Action Group members must be in attendance to receive updates and information about upcoming events. Attendance must be regular and members cannot miss more than two meetings in a row. Awards of recognition to these dedicated students are available for distribution at the end of the year. At this meeting, create an attendance list to keep track of the members that attend.
V OLUNTEER H OURS Many students and club members will ask if they get volunteer hours if they come to meetings. Students are only eligible to receive hours in assisting in events such as awareness campaigns but not from attending meetings. The hours are not given out by the Canadian Red Cross, but by your Youth Action Group’s teacher advisor or adult advisor if he/she approves of it.
3.3 V OLUNTEER F ORM For those who wish to join directly to the Canadian Red Cross, please contact your Local Canadian Red Cross Office.
3.4 R EPORTING S YSTEM Please check the appendix for the format of the year-end report, used to ensure that every Youth Action Group is running smoothly and complies with the fundamental principles of the Canadian Red Cross. Every group is asked to report their events and activities. 33
STEP 4: HOW TO RECRUIT YOUR F IRST EXECUTIVES S ECTION O VERVIEW S TEP 4.1
E XECUTIVE S TRUCTURE
S TEP 4.2
A PPLICATION P ROCESS (A PPLICAT ION F ORM )
S TEP 4.3
A GENDA
FOR
AND J O B
D ESCRIPTIONS
F IRST E XECUTIVE M EETING
4.1 E XECUTIVE S TRUCTURE AND J OB D ESCRIPTIONS President/ Co-president
Public Relations
Fundraising Officer
Meeting Coordinator
Treasurer/ Secretary
Liaison
President/Co President/Co-President: The president and co-president are the principle leaders leader of the club and have overall responsibility for the club’s administration. They should be responsible for meeting agendas, lead leading the club in prioritizing its goals and keep keeping the executive on track. They should also be well informed of all Canadian Red Cross activities, activities have a good working knowledge of the Red Cross “constitution,” set the meeting agendas in conjunction with the secretary and manage executive/ executive general meetings meetings. They represent the Canadian Red Cross at school and Local level and should be a supportive leaderr for all members, and act as a facilitator for all workshops/events. Note: The President(s) are required to be a Red Cross Volunteer!
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Secretary/Treasurer: In this position, the candidate will need to be organized and reliable. At the same time, he/she will need to have excellent communication skills and be able to relay information between the teacher advisor, the executive members and the Red Cross members. He/she will be responsible for typing up meeting agendas as well as recording minutes for weekly meetings. The club’s permanent records such as membership roster, contact information and reports will be kept by the Secretary/Treasurer. As the treasurer, they will be needed to maintain record the state of funds, income and spending of the club. They will be working closely with finances of the club.
Public Relations/Fundraising Officer: As the Public Relations representative, this candidate will need to be interpersonal and unafraid to approach others. The public relations officer will be in charge of recruiting members for the next year. They will also be responsible for making posters, keeping display boards, and talking to school officials as needed. The Public Relations Officer has to effectively represent the Canadian Red Cross, have goals aligned with Red Cross’s objectives, maintain relationships, be communicative, and be organized. This officer will be working closely with the Secretary/Treasurer in club finances regarding fundraising. He/she will be required to propose fundraising/avocation plans and organizing them.
Meeting Coordinator: In this position, the candidate will need to be approachable, fair and knowledgeable. He/she must be dedicated and willing to conduct research into the workings of the Canadian Red Cross and willing to be a facilitator for the rest of the members. He/she will be in charge of running training meetings as well as developing training materials for workshops. This includes helping members develop knowledge on the fundamental principles and structure of the Canadian Red Cross as well as its councils, and the issues our club will represent. 35
He/she will be responsible in maintaining the attendance of members as well as contacting any who are neglecting meetings. Liaison: As liaison, it is extremely important that you keep in touch with your Local Canadian Red Cross Branch regularly. Your local Canadian Red Cross Office will assist you and provide you with the support your group needs to be successful. This position requires the liaison to maintain regular contact with the office, conveying information between their Youth Action Group and the Canadian Red Cross. Note: The rest of the executive team is highly encouraged to become volunteers for the Red Cross.
4.2 A PPLICATION P ROCESS (A PPLICATION F ORM ) Name (First and Last): __________________________ Grade: ______
Homeroom: __________
E-mail Address: __________________________________ Position Applying For: President/Co-president Secretary/Treasurer Public Relations Officer Liaison Other (Specify):______________ Would you like to be considered for another position?
Yes
No
Why do you want to join this Youth Action Group? _________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________ What skills can you bring to this Youth Action Group? _________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________
Please list on the back the current clubs/teams/extra-curricular activities you are involved in: (State if you an executive member and include your current position) 36
R ED C ROSS E XECUTIVE I NTERVIEW Q UESTIONS General (for all): 1. What do you know about the goal/structure of the Canadian Red Cross? 2. What experiences have you had to make you a good candidate for the position you’re applying for? 3. Do you have something you’re passionate about? (Doesn’t have to be academic) 4. What is a hobby you have participated longest in, why did you stay with it? 5. What is “something” you wished more people would know? Why? Public Relations Officer: 1. For this position, you have to have strong interpersonal skills. Give one example where you have demonstrated those skills. 2. What sorts of challenges do you predict in working with a new club? 3. How would you work towards promoting the Canadian Red Cross in terms of getting more members? 4. What do you feel is most challenging when communicating with others? 5. How would you present the Canadian Red Cross as a club to gain teacher interest? Secretary/Treasurer: 1. If you were counting the money from a previous fundraising event and found some money missing, what would you do? 2. How organized are you? Do you use your agenda regularly? 3. Are you proficient with word-processing software?
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President / Co-President: 1. Why do you feel your leadership skills are exemplary (give an example situation)? 2. How organized are you? Do you use your agenda regularly? 3. What do you think is most important in promoting healthy dynamics within a team? 4. Do you know the Canadian Red Cross mission statement? 5. How will you motivate executives when the club is lacking membership? Meeting Coordinator / Liaison: 1. How well are you able to convey information? 2. How is your time management?
4.3 A GENDA FOR F IRST E XECUTIVE M EETING An effective meeting agenda should be a blueprint or path of the activities that will take place during the meeting. It should serve the following functions: • the meeting leader or group is to think out what needs to be accomplished • informs executives what to expect and allows them to prepare over the year • it reminds executives of what there is left to cover and a timeline An executive meeting template is provided for you on the next page.
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E XECUT IVE M EETING T EMPLATE Name • ex. Red Cross Youth Action Group Meeting Agenda Location • Where is this meeting held? Date • When is this meeting held? Starting and Ending time • When time will this meeting take place start and how long is it expected to go on for. Body • List the items to be covered during the meeting (make sure executive members know what is expected of them beforehand). • State a suggested time for each item on the list to make sure time does not run out.
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STEP 5: HOW TO PLAN YOUR FIRST EVENT S ECTION O VERVIEW S TEP 5.1
P LAN
S TEP 5.2
C HOOSE
A
S TEP 5.3
A SK
R ESOURCES
S TEP 5.4
E VENT P LANNING S HEET
THE
FOR
F IRST A CTIVITY
WITH THE
R ED C ROSS
P AST A CTIVITY
5.1 P LAN THE F IRST A CTIVITY WITH THE R ED C ROSS Sometimes, the most challenging aspect of running a Youth Action Group is doing exactly what the group is supposed to do! It is important to remember that the Youth Action Group is meant to be an “action-oriented” group. In this case, the key goal would be developing your group’s first activity. Being group oriented is the first step to your success. By taking just a few steps, you can ensure that everyone has fun while creating a great first activity.
1. BRAINSTORMING – Think of and record EVERY idea you have. 2. ANALYZING - Clarify your idea and discuss with your executives and members. Check if your ideas are feasible. 3. FOCUSING – Narrow down ideas 4. DEVELOPING - Goals, time-lines, needs, and action-steps. (Four W’s and How) 5. DELGATING – Check over your goals and assign tasks 6. CONFIRMING - Make sure all contacts have confirmed and your activity is approved by your advisors and school council/administration 40
7. PROBLEM IDENTIFICATION- Simulate (mentally or physically) your whole activity and identify issues which may arise and their solutions 8. FINALIZING – Gather people and run through the whole activity/event 9. IMPLEMENTING – Stay goal oriented and organized. Have FUN! 10. EVALUATING - Review how your activity went and find your strengths and weaknesses for the future. The Youth Action Group is a supported structure. Meaning whenever you want to carry out something, always consider your support system and its capabilities. When you start brainstorming, keep in mind to ask yourself the following few questions as they can help you make sure everything runs smoothly. What are my available resources? (Personnel and materials) What type of activity? (Fundraising, awareness, training...) Who’s the target audience? (Members, school, community) What will be the duration of your activity? (Day, week, month)
5.2 C HOOSE A P AST A CTIVITY Can’t quite think of an activity? Why not start off with an activity that has been successful in the past. There are many activities which other Red Cross Youth Action Groups have organized. You can recreate their events or utilize some of their ideas.
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5.3 A SK FOR R ESOURCES Examine the answers that you had come up with for the question “What are my available resources?” How do they compare to the answers for your other questions? If it seems that you do not have enough resources for your very first activity, don’t worry! You can increase and seek out new resources by harnessing the power of humanity by speaking to the people around you. If you’re seeking resources, whether this is materials or volunteers, start by letting everyone know what are your goals and your plans first. This will help other better help you. You can brainstorm people whom you can approach by looking at the structure of your school and moving up the hierarchy. Start with your peers, then approach teachers, you school administrator, the superintendent or even your local Red Cross branch. Remember to be reasonable and well mannered. Keep your contacts updated and show them how greatly your activity has progressed! Creating strong relationships and networks can be a great aid for your future activities. Calendar of Important Dates (2009-2010).
5.4 E VENT P LANNING S HEET For a complete Four Step Model for a successful event and a sample timeline, see the appendix.
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SECTION III: MAINTAIN AINTAINING Y OUR GROUP P LANNING NING Y OUR F IRST Y EAR P LANNING NING F OR S UCCESSIO NS
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PLANNING YOUR FIRST YEAR S ECTION O VERVIEW C ALEND AR - R ED C ROSS S PECIAL D ATES S UCCESSFUL P AST A CTIVITIES R EGULAR M EETINGS
WITH
A CTION I TEMS
C ALENDAR - R ED C ROSS S PECIAL D ATES Once you have successfully started your Youth Action Group and planned your first successful event, it is time to plan for the rest of the first year. This is a crucial step to maintain the level of interest within your group. Encourage your members to participate in events. Allow them to take part in planning for events and have open discussion meetings about upcoming events. Also take suggestions from general members because their suggestion is important. Every Youth Action Group should strive to produce four or more quality projects each year based on its level of development. A new Youth Action Group should start off with one small activity in the beginning and gradually increase its involvement as the group expands. To assist your planning, a calendar of important dates is included on the next page.
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AUGUST ‘09 S 9 12
International Day of the World’s Indigenous People International Youth Day
This month is disarmament month 5 World Teacher’s Day 12 Columbus Day 16 World Food Day 17 International Day of the Eradication of Poverty 24 United Nations Day 31 Halloween
1 3 5
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World’s AIDS Day International Day of the Disabled Person International Volunteers Day for Economic and Social Development Human Rights Day International Day of Biological Diversity Winter Break
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APRIL ‘10 S This month is Earth Month 7 World Health Day 12-16 Spring Break 21 Global Youth Service Day 22 Earth Day
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World Press Freedom Day World Red Cross Day International Day of Families Memorial Day
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JUNE ‘10 1-7 5 20 21
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Plan ahead of the activities you would like to include in your first year. There is a template calendar for you in the appendix with a few suggestions, but put your own ideas in as well!
S UCCESSFUL P AST A CTIVITIES FUNDRAISING IDEAS There are a couple of ways through which a Youth Action Group can raise money, aside from participating in an already developed fundraiser. Here are some previous fundraisers successfully completed by other Youth Action Groups. Remember to have a cause in mind!
S MALL F UNDRAISERS Multicultural Food Fest
AND / OR
A CTIVITIES :
o Have your Group cook traditional foods from all around the world. Serve these at a dinner (or after school) for a small charge o Offer information about the Red Cross and its work in the different countries being represented. o Flags can be used as decoration. o This also helps bring about appreciation for diversity.
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Jelly Bean Count
o Fill a jar with jelly beans or another small candy and have people pay to guess how many candies there are in the jar. o Whoever’s guess is the closest wins the candies.
Arts and Crafts sale
o Make crafts and advertise your sale well. o Some ideas for crafts: knitted items, candles, or paintings. You can ask local artisans for donations as well.
L ARGE F UNDRAISERS
AND / OR
A CTIVITIES :
Landmine Awareness Campaign
o Cut yellow Bristol boards to represent actual landmines and tape them to the ground in various places in the school. o Have one or two volunteers watch each piece of Bristol board and tally up how many students stepped on each. o Do not let the student body know that the Bristol boards are mimicking landmines, or they will avoid them. o Announce at the end of the week how many students would have died if the Bristol boards were actual landmines.
Exam Grams (or just candy grams)
o Sell little cards with a student’s custom message (e.g. Good Luck on Exams!). o Attach little stationary items such as small erasers or gel pens to get into the exam mood! o Optional: add some little candies such as Smarties and have custom cards that say “Smarties make you smart! ;)” o Also include a Red Cross pin or other small items. o Have brochures/posters at the booth.
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R EGULAR M EETINGS WITH A CTION I TEMS The number of times that the group meets will vary from group to group; however, they must meet at least once per month. Each meeting has a different purpose and below is a chart outlining the steps to take to prepare for a meet meeting.
M EETING G UIDELINES
Action Items
• Have a purpose and specific action items (TODO list) for the meeting • Meetings flow best with an agenda and a moderator (possibly the chair/president of the group)
Take minutes
• Summarize the key points (what was said by whom, who is assigned to what, etc.) • Distribute minutes to members via email for approval.
Keep it interesting
• Meeting can be for planning, implementing or evaluating new ideas • Mix and match work with social events and training • Contact the branch for training opportunities for youth
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PLANNING FOR S UCCESSION S ECTION O VERVIEW W HY
IS IT SO I MPORTANT TO
P LAN
FOR
S UCCESSIONS ?
G ET T EACHER A DVISOR G ET N EW E XECUTIVES G ET N EW M EMBERS
W HY IS IT SO I MPORTANT TO P LAN FOR S UCCESSIONS ? Every year, members, executives, or teacher advisors may leave the Youth Action Group due to graduation or other reasons. So it is important that the Youth Action Group still continues on after a teacher advisor or a graduating executive leaves. Planning for successions can help ease the transition and help prepare a new executive team. After all, you have spent so much time to get the group started. It would be a waste to abandon the group completely.
G ET T EACHER A DVISOR For getting a new teacher advisor, please refer back to step 2.1. If your teacher advisor will be the same person, you do not necessarily have to go through the process of discussing the purpose of the Group. However, you should still make sure he or she knows his/her responsibilities and you should discuss the new agenda for the following year with him or her.
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G ET N EW E XECUTIVES The new executives should be existing members of the current Youth Action Group so that they are familiar with how the group is run. These interested members should hand in a “resume” including their experience with the group and their commitment for the next year, along with the application form. Please see Step 4 for more details on selecting executives.
G ET N EW M EMBERS There are many ways to recruit new members including the word of mouth, booths, and announcements. The easiest and sometimes most effective way to recruit new members is through existing members. Have your members spread the word about the Youth Action Group and invite them to join. People are more likely to join when they know their friends are in the group. You can also recruit new members by setting booths at special events, especially events for new students such as Grade 8 Orientations. Have posters, brochures and an enthusiastic member at the booth to invite the students to look around. Encourage the students to sign up and then send them emails for more information and updates. Last but not least, have inviting announcements at your school to announce your Group. Remember the three C’s : Catchy, Concise, and Convincing. *Note: See the year-end Planning Calendar for months that should be allotted to planning for successions.
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SECTION IV:: GOING TO UNIVERSITY? O VERVIEW
OF
U NIVERSITY G ROUPS
H OW T O J OIN
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O VERVIEW OF U NIVERSITY G ROUPS A list of university groups in Ontario and some sample activities can be found below.
C URRENT U NIVERSITY G ROUPS • • • • • • •
IN
O NTARIO
University of Toronto, St. George (Downtown) University of Toronto, Scarborough University of Toronto, Mississauga (in the forming stage) York University McMaster University University of Western Ontario Huron University College
S OME S AMPLE A CTIVITIES University
Activities
University of Toronto, Downtown
Children affected by war, public awareness/ fundraising, video screening, lecture series, and art exhibition
York University
Public awareness, information distribution, RC 101 orientation for new members, speaker series on IHL and situation in Darfur and Fundraising.
McMaster University
Public awareness/fundraising with focus on Global Citizenship conference.
University of Western Ontario
Fundraising, promotion of humanitarian issues, volunteering in the community at a variety of locations (soup kitchens, children’s museum). Volunteer with the local RC branch. Speaker series and campus-wide campaigns.
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Red Cross Youth Action Group presents: High School Meeting with University Groups • Learn how to start your own Red Cross Youth Action Group! • Representatives from Red Cross university groups will be present • Current high school Red Cross YAGs must attend this mandatory meeting • All those interested in joining Red Cross YAG are welcome!
Date: __________________ Time: __________________ Location: _______________
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H OW TO J OIN Red Cross Youth Action Groups play an important part in furthering the work of the Red Cross/Red Crescent Movement and in engaging youth on important domestic and international humanitarian issues.
To join a university group, 1. Attend the high school meeting with university groups 2. Read the membership requirements 3. Contact the chair and join the recruitment events
M EMBERSHIP R EQUIREMENTS The membership requirements for some of the university groups are provided in the table below. University
Requirements
University Be involved in at least one event (fundraising, public of awareness) throughout the year. Toronto, Downtown York University
General members should attend at least one event throughout the year. Executives are elected from the general membership.
McMaster University
Attend events and be actively involved in a club’s life
University Paying $10 to cover insurance and club costs. Majority of Western of the money is donated to the RC. Members must Ontario attend an inaugural meeting to familiarize themselves with the principles and activities of the RC.
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C ONTACT
THE
U NIVERSITY G ROUPS
Interested high school Youth Action Group members are encouraged to attend the annual recruitment events held at each university. To find out more, contact the individual group and go to their website. Here is the contact information for several groups in Ontario.
1. University of Toronto, St. George (Downtown) Website: http://redcross.sa.utoronto.ca/ (or go to https://ulife.utoronto.ca/ and search for “Red Cross Youth Group�) E-mail: redcross.youthgroup@gmail.com (or rcsc@utsc.utoronto.ca for Scarborough campus)
2. York University Website: http://www.yorku.ca/redcross/ E-mail: redcross@yorku.ca
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APPENDIX M EMBER S IGN U P Name (First and Last): ____________________________________ Grade: ______
Homeroom: __________
E-mail Address: __________________________________
How did you find out about this Youth Action Group?
Why do you want to be part of a Red Cross Youth Action Group?
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
M EMBER S IGN U P Name (First and Last): ____________________________________ Grade: ______
Homeroom: __________
E-mail Address: __________________________________
How did you find out about this Youth Action Group?
Why do you want to be part of a Red Cross Youth Action Group?
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Y EAR - END R EPORTING F ORM
Canadian Red Cross Croix-Rouge Canadienne Region of York Branch
Youth Action Group Year End Report 2009-2010 School Name: School Address: School Phone Number: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
President: Vice President: Treasurer: Secretary: Others:
Executive Members Email:
Total Number of Members: Name of Teacher Advisor: Email: Report of Accomplishments Describe each activity with the date, number of participating members, size of audience, and amount fundraised (if applicable) under activity description Event: Description:
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Event: Description:
Event: Description:
Event: Description:
Other Comments:
Completed and Submitted by:
Contact Info:
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Y EAR P LANNING C ALENDAR ( EXAMPLE )
S EPTEMBER :
O CTOBER :
F IND A TEACHER ADVISOR
S UDAN WEEK OF ACTION
P LAN YOUR FIRST MEETING R ECRUIT MEMBERS !
N OVEMBER :
D ECEMBER :
A FGHANISTAN A WARENESS
H AVE A FOOD / TOY DRIVE !
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J ANUARY :
F EBRUARY :
E XAMS !
S UCCESSION P LANNING E XECUTIVE A PPLICATIONS H ANDED O UT
M ARCH :
A PRIL :
R ED C ROSS M ONTH
E XECUTIVE I NTERVIEWS
E XECUTIVE A PPLICATIONS D UE
R ED C ROSS M EETING FOR N EW E XECUTIVES
M AY :
J UNE : H AVE A YEAR - END PARTY !
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S AMPLE E VENT T IMELINE
Develop a list of your goals and objectives and possible events that may help attain these. Preliminary planning‌ Develop your Project Plan!
Establish any partnerships with other groups or organizations
Make a list of businesses for donation of supplies or services
Approach businesses for donations
Prepare promotional materials
Recruit volunteers that will be required
Look for, and book, a venue for the event
Book any other services or supplies that you will need.
4 Weeks Before Send out promotional materials to target audience‌Promote! Promote!
Develop a tentative agenda
Purchase necessary materials 3 weeks before
Assign volunteer tasks and roles for eventday
Continue promotion
Contact media to invite them to the event, or write an article for publication
2 Weeks Before Confirm agenda
Continue Promotion
1 Week Before Any last minute details that have been forgotten
Continue promotion and remind any media contacts
Week of Event The Event
Week After the Event Write thank you notes to volunteers and others, including businesses, that may have donated supplies or services
Follow-up with participants to get feed-back and to continue participant engagement
Write up recommendations for future events
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T HE F OUR S TEP M ODEL FOR E VENTS (C REDITS TO C ANADIAN R ED C ROSS Y OUTH TAP) Goal Setting •Goal Goal setting involves looking at goals and objectives for your group. Once you have determined your group membership, it is important to describe what your group hopes to accomplish during the coming year. •Goal Goal setting is an activity that should take place soon after your group is formed. It should involve all committee members since achieving these goals will occupy each volunteer’s time. •Goals: Goals: Goals are broad statements describing overall purpose, indicating your intentions and aims. Here are two examples: •a. a. To increase awareness at your school about global issues. •b. b. To help people who have been injured by landmines. •Objectives: Objectives are more specific statements of desired results, which identify the people, actions and conditions needed to achieve your goals. Here are the objectives, which go with the above goals: •a. a. To provide students with educational information about how children are affected by war. •b. b. To raise $2,000 for the Canadian Red Cross Landmine Survivors Fund. Project Planning •Here Here is a brief overview of how to plan a group project: •1. 1. After setting the goals and objectives of your event, decide which type of project your group will do: fundraising, awareness, education, or fun activities for your group or school. •2. 2. Have a large group brainstorming session to generate ideas for projects. •Remember Remember these basic rules for brainstorming: •List every idea—even even weird, way way-out ideas, even confusing ideas, especially silly ideas. •Put Put ideas down the way the person said it: don’t edit. •Do Do not discuss ideas, don’t ask questions; don’t ask people to clarify. •Do not judge—no no good or bad, no red or green, just ideas. •It’s It’s OK to repeat because people don’t usually repeat exactly. •3. 3. Once you have several ideas, choose one that your group will focus on. You maywant to have a vote to decide, or use group consensus. •4. Plan the activity: •Decide Decide when the activity will take place. •What What resources will you need? Ex. money, people, educational supplies (videos), etc. •Make up a budget—How How much money will you need to start? How much will •you you make (if your activity is a fundraiser)? •Make a time-line line of approximately 6 weeks leading up to the activity activity— include all details about who will do what and when. •Decide Decide on a promotional strategy. Implementation •Once Once you have planned out your project, go to work! Remember to publicize, publicize, publicize! Make sure that when the day of the activity arrives everyone knows what his or her job is. Evaluation and Follow-Up •It It is very important to do an evaluation of your activity when it’s all over. You may want to have a group meeting to discuss such things as: •Did Did the activity to as planned? Why or why not? •How How much money was raised? (if you did a fundraiser) •Would Would this activity be worthwhile to do again in the future? •Don’t Don’t forget to thank all of the people who helped make the activity a success! You can send out •thank thank you cards or letters to people outside of the group who helped and/or made donations.
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