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The NDYP rural outreach team is comprised of YP members from all across North Dakota. They complied this guide to help new rural YP networks get off the ground.

Contact rural outreach team

Learn from your members
Ask your members what they want. Make up a list of potential events and ASK which ones your members are most likely to attend. NDYP networks have used surveys, polls and group emails to accomplish this.

 • Google offers a great free survey tool through their spreadsheet application. Read  Google survey instructions

 

Tag on to other events
Part of what makes YP unique is that it’s primarily a network. If something is already going on in your community, tag on and use it to your advantage by attending as a YP group, or even partnering with an existing event.

 

Figure out cost
Find out how much members will pay to attend your events. Most YP events range from free to $10/member. If you are charging member dues, consider a member discount.

• This may seem like a no-brainer, but NEVER pay for something you can't afford, even if you think your group can make up the cost. Make sure you have the money for place reservations, food, etc, BEFORE you start.

 

Get better
Post event evaluations to find out what you did well and what needs to be tweaked. Consider sharing this information with other groups. Keep a running log of hours spent by volunteers; the NDYP tracks this to help groups like yours show economic impact in their communities.

 

Mix social and professional development
Make hybrid events! Activities can include trips to the symphony, theater, a local art event, or a professional development event masquerading in a comedy act.