A Message from the Director
This has been an epic year for the Utah Afterschool Network. There is growing interest and need for families to utilize afterschool programs for their children and we strive for UAN to be the “Go To” resource for out of school time programs statewide.
A key area to our organization is to serve as a resource to out of school time programs and respond to the needs of the field. Each and every program across Utah serves unique communities working towards meeting youth and family needs by providing responsive programs. UAN has discovered the usefulness of social media for quick and efficient dissemination of information and resources to these programs. In fact, UAN is celebrating the one year anniversary on launching our new website; we have added Facebook and Twitter to our social media networking initiative.
When thinking about social media and how it relates to afterschool /community school programs, a few thoughts come to mind:
Social Media does not “Just Happen”
- If you want to utilize having a Facebook Page and Twitter account for your program you need to put time into it. Staff in this field is always very busy and personnel may not have much time to devote to social media. Hire an intern or volunteer you can trust with your social media presence and start discussing what you want achieved.
- Figure out what you want to accomplish with social media. A website with information may get clicks from sharing stellar content, but that alone may not be enough. Know your population. Be proactive and reactive with social media.
-Take the time to create circles for certain organizations you interact with. Think of prospective partners who you want to interact with you more. With these circles, you can tailor your messages for specific groups of people instead of sending one message and hoping the right people view it.
Rethink the Way You Use Social Media
-What’s your social media routine? Rethink how you are sharing information, and if you’re doing it in a way your audience wants to be communicated.
-Think of ways you can inspire your audience. Telling stories that you’re proud of that will inspire your people will get them to share it.
Make Fundraising More Social
-Celebrating key milestones within your organization, sharing good press about your events, and thanking your supporters. That can’t be emphasized enough. Brainstorm ways in which you and your programs may create momentum through social media.
UAN wants to hear from you with how we are doing with our social media efforts. Please click on the link and take a short survey: Feedback. We want to know how UAN may best serve resource needs for your organization to help support youth and families in Utah.
Wishing each of you a successful year of Afterschool in Utah!
Anneli M. Segura
Executive Director
