Start with a plan. Before you approach an organization, determine a project you need help with, how much time is involved, and the specific work required.
Use your contacts. Ask members of the school community whether they have contacts at local civic groups. Simply talking to a friend or neighbor about how their organization can contribute to the school might start a lasting partnership.
Be patient. It usually takes some time to get a response from a civic organization. Keep the timeline in mind when you plan your outreach.
Stay in touch regularly. Appoint a member of your group to be the liaison with the civic organization. It’s important to keep the lines of communication open.
Say thanks publicly. Send a thank-you note to the club, but also send a press release to local media detailing the help they have given to the school.
Make it a two-way street. Offer to help the civic organization with its own project. Maybe your parent group could provide volunteers to help them, opening up the possibility of an ongoing partnership.
Read more: Service Groups Lend a Hand
