marketing
Mentor and CTC Support
Organization:
La Casa Hogar/Yakima Interfaith Coalition VISTA Name:
Amanda Lasik
Program Start:
9/2004
Program End:
9/2005
Project Description:
Our vista member’s accomplishments can be thought of as serving four broad categories, the Community Technology Center (CTC) program, mentoring support for staff and students, sustainability & organizational capacity building, and personal development. Her work in the CTC involved development of curriculum and outcomes for our computer literacy education program and increasing the use of the CTC as an independent learning center. She also assisted with teaching classes and individual learning projects.
As a mentor she supported and empowered our staff, all former program participants, through building their computer skills, and supporting their growth in organizational leadership. Through modeling, working with recruiting and cultivating volunteers, she mobilized and supported student involvement in a variety of activities.
Project Outcome:
As a result of her work with issues related to sustainability and donor cultivation we were able to consistently produce and distribute our newsletter and double the revenues generated from our annual event. We were able to add a new cultivation event “Lunch on Us” which has resulted in 120 new prospects/donors for our organization. She also organized and laid a system for grant development accumulating appropriate materials which contributed to the efficiency of grant development.
Amanda increased her Spanish language skills and through our leadership development program began to identify and address her own leadership strength and weaknesses.
Impact Quote:
Amanda Lasik is a remarkable addition to our staff serving as a VISTA member. Her ability to perceive the need and remain flexible is very helpful in our situation. She also has adapted well to our organizational culture providing mentoring and leadership for those we serve. It is a pleasure to work with this bright and talented woman.
Marketing and Outreach
Organization:
Heart of Los Angeles Youth, Inc. VISTA Name:
Ashley Cross
Program Start:
9/2004
Program End:
9/2005
Project Description:
Install, maintain and troubleshoot a wireless network of 30 laptops, the Mobile Lab, by November 2004
Increase the number of youth served by the CLC from 500 to 600 (a 20% increase) by the end of the VISTA term, with the addition of the Mobile Lab Project. We may surpass this target number by recruiting Camino Nuevo High School youth, who can earn elective credits for participating in the MLP.
Create job descriptions and train 2-4 technologically advanced high school interns to teach younger CLC participants.
Public and private sector resources will enable the project to continue after the VISTA member leaves.
Create a manual of procedure on how to update the website after VISTA member leaves.
Recruit local college volunteers to work with high school youth on developing the HOLA Fun Zone (HOLA’s youth website).
Project Outcome:
HOLA’s AmeriCorps VISTA volunteer, Ashley Cross, has been an amazing addition to Heart of Los Angeles Youth (HOLA). You need only visit our new and improved website to see the many ways that she has made a tremendous impact upon the organization. At www.heartofla.org you will see updated stories and press releases which Ashley designed and published. She also designed and formatted a link for point of donation opportunities, as well as a merchandizing page featuring HOLA cards designed by our youth. HOLA has received close to $3,000 in donations through our website to date, which funds can be directly attributed to Ashley’s efforts. We also received a $50,000 grant that came through our new and improved site. Please take a look at the home page and the articles included on the site, which Ashley was responsible for designing and formatting. Ashley was able to recreate on our web site the entire article about HOLA, including photographs, which was published in “La Opinion”. She was responsible for creating the Special Events page and many of the stories and pictures throughout the site. At the same time, we have been able to hard copies of the PDF articles from the web site to form an integral part of HOLA’s press packet. Ashley’s contribution to the HOLA website is only one very critical part of how she’s expanded the capacity for our organization.
Ashley succeeded in refurbishing the 30 laptops ahead of schedule, but the organization encountered some unforeseen obstacles in procuring battery packs, a wireless router, wireless cards, and most importantly, a space to accommodate the Mobile Lab Project. Thanks to Ashley’s research, these were obtained during the last quarter of her term. While these challenges were being addressed, we added the new goal of increasing the capacity of HOLA’s development office through the overall improvement of the website, which Ashley undertook with great efficiency and success.
The Mobile Lab Project is now slated to be unveiled in March or April of 2006, a successful culmination of Ashley’s research and development efforts. Batteries, cards and a router have been obtained, and funds have been secured for the build-out of the new Teen Center.
Impact Quote:
Ashley’s ability to accomplish tasks quickly has greatly enhanced HOLA’s public image, giving a much-needed dynamic quality to the website, much to the organization’s benefit. Because she finished the Mobile Laptop Project in such a timely manner, HOLA was able to gain additional financial support from national companies towards launching a new Teen Center. Ashley successfully adapted to the new goals as they evolved during the year, and she was able to complete the tasks set out for her before the end of her contract. Fortunately for Heart of Los Angeles Youth, Ashley’s next post will be as a full-time staff member. She joined HOLA’s staff as the Bridges After School Manager and Volunteer Coordinator on September 19, 2005.
Public Information Officer
Organization:
Grand Rapids Community Media Center VISTA Name:
Jason Crow
Program Start:
6/2002
Program End:
6/2003
Project Description:
The last few months have brought about many new challenges for our seasoned VISTA veteran. Now fully operating under the umbrella of the CMC as my special staff person, Jason has worked on coordinating many of our Public Relations and Marketing efforts. He has been instrumental in establishing a presentation standard for CMC tours, which are happening more regularly under his watch. He has created a routine press release mailing that has resulted in continuing media interest and exposure in CMC activities.
Project Outcome:
Jason has been instrumental in coordinating the special events that CMC has sponsored or hosted. He has willingly shouldered the duty of making appearances at public functions as the CMC representative, recently meeting the esteemed Governor of Michigan, Jennifer Granholm, the morning after her State of the State Address.
Other special events include the nationally recognized educational broadcast of the JASON XIV Project. This weeklong workshop was at held at local gathering place Celebration Cinema where Jason led the CMC’s presence, reaching out to the youth of our community. This high-profile event that was attended by many of Kent County’s eight graders and was broadcast 24/7 on GRTV’s second channel LiveWire.
Most recently, Jason coordinated a visit from Detective Sullivan (Oprah Winfrey, the Today Show, and others have featured his new book and software), who teaches Cyber-Safety to school children and their parents. In addition to his interview during drive-time on WYCE 88.1FM, our sponsorship of his visit has resulted in exposure in the Grand Rapids Family Magazine.
Jason has helped the CMC become the production house for the statewide broadband mapping initiative “LinkMichigan.” He designed the LinkMichigan brochure and has recently taken over the large task of redesigning the “FREE Internet Access” brochure that includes a map, location, and hours for every public Internet Access site in Barry, Ionia, and Kent Counties. When finished, this brochure will be featured as part of a large marketing campaign funded by the state to promote already existing Internet Access sites and Community Technology Centers in the area.
Regional Coordinator
Organization:
CTC Net New England VISTA Name:
Adam Cohen
Program Start:
8/2002
Program End:
8/2003
Project Description:
• Assist NE affiliates in the process to apply as an official chapter of CTCNet
• Design and implement a membership structure for the Chapter
• Work with chapter affiliates to design and implement a fundraising and development strategy for the region
• Organize and coordinate chapter meetings and training events
• Create a peer assistance program
• Map tech resources and programs within the Chapter’s geographical scope and create distribution outlets for this information
• Conduct outreach activities to bring new organizations to the chapter and CTCNet national
• Network and provide linkages between affiliates and other affiliates, private sector, government, and other organizations
• Work with CTCNet national office to assist in any activities that will benefit Chapter affiliates
Project Outcome:
Has met with various CTCs, has created an online newsletter to keep folks informed. Has contributed to regional / national endeavors such as CBC, ComTech Review, etc. This work continued to be outstanding in its contribution.
CTC Outreach and Support
Organization:
CTC Net New England VISTA Name:
Dan Schackman
Program Start:
6/2002
Program End:
8/2005
Project Description:
Goal 1: Expand local ties among member centers and increase organizational capacity to collaborate with local consortia of CTCs around the country.
Goal 2: Assist in creating a system of technology-related technical assistance support for CTCs in the Boston metropolitan area.
Goal 3: Conduct research, web design activities and email activities to maintain and expand delivery of services to member centers.
Project Outcome:
As can be seen above, Dan has continued to take on an extraordinarily broad range of projects that require talents ranging from research to multi-media production, to writing, community organizing and Web design.
In these past six months he has played an especially important role in increasing the organization’s communication capacity through everything from enhancing our Web site to managing email lists systems for well over 1000 subscribers to communicating with and assisting individuals seeking to create community technology centers.
A summary of accomplishments includes:
Assisting Evaluation for Grants
• Participated in applicant evaluation committee; reviewed approx. 25 proposals for the subawards we’re making through our CNS-funded Learn & Serve America/Youth Visions for Stronger Neighborhoods program
Communication:
• Edited 2004 CTCNet Annual Report
• Edited Fall 2003 CTCNet Newsletter
CTC VISTA Project:
• Served on CTC VISTA Project Advisory Board; participate in monthly conference calls
• Attended part of CTCNet VISTA Pre-Service Orientation (08/03)
• Participated in CTCNet presentation to new VISTAs at PSO
• Updated his VISTA web page
• Sent informational emails about regional CTCNet-associated groups to each non MetroBoston CTC VISTA and their supervisor as a potential resource
• Attended monthly MetroBoston CTC VISTA meetings
• MA InterCorps Council: Serves on this state-wide National Service council
• Leads Communications team, managing MICC web site, edited and co-wrote Fall/Winter 2003 newsletter
• Developed and helped plan MICC Service Enrichment Roundtable event (12/05/03) attended by over forty National Service members; did time/stress management presentation.
Other:
• Produced “Digital Empowerment” PSA Video
• Attended all-day CTCNet Staff Meeting (Oct. 1); did “What Matters Most” personal/time management presentation
• Participated in CTCNet Strategic Planning Meeting in DC (Oct. 24-26)
• Met with Lisa Austin of Pasadena, CA, in town to research setting up a CTC
• Completed supervisor evaluations of Executive Director and Managing Director
• Completed CTCNet Tech survey for current and future needs
• Served as reviewer for Salesforce.com Foundation on-line Community Youth Media Festival
Impact Quote:
“Throughout the years that he worked with CTCNet, Dan was always glad to take on new and challenging tasks and worked with talent and diligence to get them accomplished successfully. In addition to his own work, he maintained a consistent focus on the overall success of the organization and was supportive of fellow workers and projects in addition to the ones where he played a principal role. We were very fortunate to have his assistance thanks to the AmeriCorps*VISTA program!”
— Steve Ronan
CTC Program Building
Organization:
Dorchester Bay EDC VISTA Name:
Karen Sheers
Program Start:
8/2002
Program End:
8/2004
Project Description:
• Recruitment/Promotion — Create fliers, brochures, and other marketing materials. Promote the program utilizing word of mouth.
• Intake — Interview Technology Goes Home hopefuls, score them, and file/manage information.
• Training — Assist in training and volunteering.
• Newsletter —Edit, make suggestions, and find ideas for articles.
After School program responsibilities — Assist with homework; develop and teach curriculum, and overall program management.
In her second year, Karen
1. Assisted in maintaining Pierce Computer Lab (i.e., downloading windows updates)
2. Promoted YES (afterschool program) and is an ambassador for Technology Goes Home program
3. Participated in professional development workshops
4. Enrolled in learnthat.com
5. Started her web page
6. Learned to design fliers, business cards etc.
Project Outcome:
Karen “Cookie” Sheers has provided amazing service to our Technology Goes Home program. She has been very organized and proactive. When I originally started my position in May 2003, Cookie informed me that our Alumni Committee was inactive. However she stated that she wanted to work hard to build the alumni committee and get it up and running. Originally out of the 86 families that graduated from this program, less than 2% remained in touch. To date, we have had a 10% increase in participants. This is partly attributed to Cookie placing personal telephone calls, and sending out personal letters to the families.
Cookie also has a childcare background and she is a very outgoing person. As a result many parents approached her regarding an after school program. It is because of her sharing their concerns with us that the Y.E.S program was developed and Cookie is taking the lead on this project. She is a tremendous asset to Dorchester Bay Economic Development Corporation.
Marketing and Outreach
Organization:
Boston Neighborhood Network VISTA Name:
Scott Hillier
Program Start:
8/2002
Program End:
8/2004
Project Description:
• Implement plans to increase BNN’s membership and client base.
• Help write publicity and design flyers, brochures, and newsletters.
• Help organize and produce special outreach activities including video promotions, community oriented TV programs, and public service announcements for non-profit organizations.
• Implement plans for targeted outreach to special populations (e.g. youth, elders, ESL groups, disabled).
• Help implement BNN’s training programs by developing curriculum to meet members’ and client’ needs. Teach workshops to youth and adults in video and digital media at BNN and off-site at member organizations.
• Assist with maintenance of digital editing equipment at CityPlace.
• Complete PSAs
Project Outcome:
Scott came to BNN in September 2002. He quickly became a valuable member of the BNN team, assisting with Ed/Out projects that promote BNN services, teaching video production, assisting members with non-linear editing, troubleshooting edit equipment, and producing public service announcements. Scott has raised the production standards of BNN with his excellent editing and shooting skills. He has also assisted with print promotions such as newsletters and flyers.
Due to Scott’s excellent production capabilities he was able to complete a number of PSAs, instructional videos, and community based programs for BNN. Such programs included the 10 part series “Sister Talk 2,” a program aimed at African American women to raise awareness of cardiovascular health. Scott assisted Barbara Barrow-Murray, BNN’s Roxbury Studio Manager, with editing the series. Scott also played a large role in helping to modernize the look of the channel, creating promotional spots, and helping to improve the channel’s graphics.
Impact Quote:
“Scott’s presence at BNN has greatly improved our ability to do projects we had wanted to undertake but didn’t have the resources to do. He has improved the look of the channels, which increases the value of BNN. His enthusiasm for teaching has allowed us to offer more digital media classes at low rates to members and others.”
- Wendy Blom, BNN Director of Education and Outreach
CTC Program Building
Organization:
Parents, Let's Unite for Kids VISTA Name:
Brenda Jackson
Program Start:
6/2002
Program End:
6/2003
Project Description:
Brenda Jackson began her work as a VISTA volunteer with PLUK in June of 2002. Her principal goal has been to further develop the technology center programs, outreach to other community organizations and sustainability. We’ve come a long way and then some with Brenda’s assistance. The centerpiece has been funding for a state-wide tutoring program for at-risk children which is headquartered within the technology center. Brenda was a participant in an eight-month program for training collaborative teams around the state to evaluate technology needs for individuals with disabilities. We continue to benefit from her efforts by being awarded a Beaumont Foundation Grant she had written for a mobile lab to be used for training.
Project Outcome:
Brenda made great steps in developing the programs of the technology center. These steps include: increasing the number of support volunteers for all programs, reaching out to other organizations that are trying to develop technology centers within their communities, researching funding options, applying for funding to ensure sustainability, developing a marketing plan for public awareness, presenting to groups, organizing training events in the center, and slowly increasing the quantity and quality of the programs in the center along with developing the infrastructure.
Project Accomplishments:
• 2 presentations on Web accessibility
• sent out electronic info to 100 people;
• 1 presentation on educational technology;
• organized a tutor program for 20 kids;
• organized ScienceQuest program for 10 kids (created collaboration with four organizations and designed a Web page about the program (http://www.pluk.org/sciencequest.htm);
• made contact with two other organizations, lining up space, computers, and program materials for satellite CTCs if funded, and wrote the grant for funding;
• currently working on establishing an education program for educators, paraprofessionals, and parents on assistive technology tools that are available.
• developing a catalogue of in-house resource materials;
• designing a flier for the assistive technology lab, revamping existing materials,
• designing a Web site for the assistive technology lab as part of the VISTA project.
• participated in the Montana Collaborative Empowerment Project
• participated in a Digital Media Workshop.
• designed web page for VISTA project (http://www.pluk.org/ctc-americorpvista.htm)
Marketing and Outreach Coordinator
Organization:
Grand Rapids Community Media Center VISTA Name:
Jason Crow
Program Start:
6/2001
Program End:
6/2003
Project Description:
One of the many capacity building functions Jason has provided has been with media support for a brand new federally funded grant project MOLLIE. Working with the CMC video artist in residence, Jason produced a promotional video that will help insure the future of this fledgling project that is only funded for a year. In addition, he extended GRTV outreach efforts by providing much needed video help to local non-profits who otherwise could not afford it.
Project Outcome:
Jason became a key participant in making our Spring Alliance for Community Media conference a success. With his local connections with artists, Jason put on an art installation that included a live broadcast on Channel 24 Livewire, interactive wireless video transmission, and addressed contemporary issues with technology and community development/education.
His most recent contribution to the future of this organization, relates to his new job description. As Public information officer, Jason is using his graphic design skills to create a new”image and look” for the CMC. Now we have someone doing regular press releases, sending out event information to local calendars, and supporting the CMC outreach efforts. The CMC looks forward to Jason’s second year of service.
PRPD's 2010 Public Radio Programming Conference
When:
September 23, 2010 - September 26, 2010
Where:
Denver, CO In the tradition of PRPD Conferences past, this year’s gathering will also inspire. You will hear prominent public radio voices and those outside our industry not just explain where we are as an industry but where we are going and how to get there despite – or because of – the troubled economy.
This year’s program includes sessions designed to help PDs and content professionals not just survive but thrive in these changing times. Attend, and you will return to your station armed with new knowledge about:
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programming on multiple platforms
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