As we gear up for the 2012 Call for Projects, we have scoured the final report archives for valuable lessons learned from past projects. Here is some food for thought as you consider your next CBT-funded project.
Lesson #1: Just because something has not happened in the Clayoquot Sound region before should not stop you from trying!
Lesson #2: Include elders and advisors in your project. No matter how large or how small a project or initiative is, a support circle of elders and advisors—even one that meets infrequently—will provide invaluable advice and peace of mind. Make the time to include this in your project planning and implementation. Be sure their participation is sustainable and consider what fair compensation for an elder’s knowledge and commitment to community is. Also be realistic about what you can fairly and reasonably ask from your volunteers.
Lesson #3: Inter-generational knowledge exchanges and hands-on activities are great ways to teach youth and communities.
Lesson #4: When recruiting volunteers, train them and trust them. Providing an organized framework and clear expectations is critical to volunteer success.
Lesson #5: Be realistic about how your program design translates into a budget. Does a special event need to be free in order to see the sort of participation you would like? We often hear that cost and transportation are barriers to attendance and participation. Have you considered entrance fees on a sliding scale or by donation?
Lesson #6: Many proponents have learned that things happen more slowly than anticipated. Call it what you like—Tofino time or organizational process. It may take more time than you thought to round up signed waivers or to receive the band council resolution required to move forward. Keep in mind that approximately 15% of grantees request extra time to complete their project.
Lesson #7: Set clear roles and responsibilities amongst partners from the outset. Spending a bit of time at the beginning of your project will help to ensure there are no surprises later.
Lesson #8: Legal responsibilities for events should be clarified and communicated early to ensure all requirements are understood and met. Consider such things as filming permission forms, parental consent, transportation, chaperones, etc.).
Lesson #9: Video is a powerful medium for sharing your project results. The creation of the video can be a lot of fun for all involved, allows you to share your work widely and makes great web content.
Lesson #10: Don’t make too many copies of printed materials. It is better to print small quantities on demand, even if printing costs are higher.
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