By Reem Kirja
Have you ever wanted to start a project or a campaign in your community but needed help figuring out where to begin? This beginner's guide will lead you through the necessary steps to creating and completing a campaign!
Note: this article is not guaranteeing the successful completion of your campaign if you follow the advice listed. The steps below are part of the knowledge I collected throughout my initiative, The NSE Campaign, that helped me achieve my goal and will hopefully help you too.
Identify your Goal
The first step to your campaign is identifying a problem in your community that you feel passionate about. For example, if your school prohibits using languages other than English, start a campaign based on that. By solving a problem you feel strongly about, you can work on the solution for an extended time period without getting bored. Establish a firm goal to stay on track during your campaign.
Research, research, research!
Research is the most critical step. It would be best if you researched as many topics relating to your goal as possible. Make sure to research counterarguments, so you're prepared when they come your way. You can also write an essay and/or make a presentation based on your research in case potential supporters want more information.
Collect a list of possible figures who can make this happen
After research, you should identify who can make or break your campaign. Examples include superintendents, principals, and political figures. Have a way to contact them and professionally state your problem and solution.
Create a Plan
Have an action plan ready so you know what steps to take first, such as whether community signatures are needed for the success of your campaign or whether simply speaking to your target audience will get the job done. It's essential to have a plan to correct yourself if you're going off track. Sometimes alternate routes to your success can help speed up the process, but ultimately, it depends on your topic and goal.
Create a Timeline
After making your plan, identify how much time you want to spend on each step. Parkinson's Law states that work expands to the time allotted, so setting a specific timeline will help your campaign stay on track. Timelines are flexible, giving room for change, but make sure to meet deadlines for milestones so your campaign can stay on track.
Optional: Make a Petition on a Petition Website (change.org) or Start a GoFundMe
Support is your biggest tool, so why not earn more online? The internet is more connected now than ever, giving you a platform to form connections and attract supporters. Of course, this step is optional but highly recommended.
Spread the Word
Inform everyone of what you're doing and redirect them to your petition and/or fundraising page. Hang posters with QR codes directing individuals to the website you will use (Change.org, GoFundMe, etc.) in your school, local cafes, libraries, and more. Make sure to talk to the store's owner or your principal before hanging anything up.
Check your progress regularly, and repeat any steps if necessary.
Finally, periodically post updates and new information on social media to keep your supporters engaged. You can also post about media coverage! Check the progress of your campaign regularly, and update your plan and timeline as needed. You are also more than welcome to repeat any steps if necessary.
There you have it! My beginner's guide to starting your own campaign. I hope this helps and your campaign is a success!
Till next time, Changemakers ~
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