CALIFORNIA BICYCLE HELMET CAMPAIGN
How to plan and conduct an annual purchase campaign to provide low-cost, but very cool, helmets to children and their families.
Why? Wearing a Bicycle Helmet Reduces the Risk of Head Injury by 85%!
Why? Bicycles are not toys, they are a vehicle. Children are physically able to ride a bike before they are cognitively able to deal with the complexities of traffic.
Why? Children should receive consistent messages from their home, school and community about bicycle safety and helmet use.
Why? Even moderate brain injury can result in problems with: comprehension memory speed of thinking behavior
Why? Lifetime costs to care for a traumatically brain injured child exceed $4.6 million.
Important Features Vendor Choices Helmet Fitting Adaptable for a variety of groups
Step 1 Choosing a Helmet Campaign Site Coordinator Enthusiastic Organized Inclusive Kids//Share Responsibility
Step 2 Determine Campaign Goals and Target Audience increase helmet use change the “norm” fun educational activities collaborate
Step 3 Arrange Helmet Sales Local Manufacturers Negotiate Delivery Details
Step 4 Conduct Helmet Use Pre-Survey Impact Use data to obtain other funding
Step 5 Inform Staff About Campaign How it will work Timeline Solicit Input Solicit Participation
Step 6 Get the Word Out Poster Contest Safety Assemblies Special Events (Egg toss/watermelon drop) Contests Community Events Law Enforcement School Newsletter Press Kit Media
Step 7 Distribute Letter and Helmet Information to Parents How it will work Order Forms/Money Siblings? Parents?
Step 8 Helmet Giveaways and Other Fundraising Options Determine need for helmet scholarships $1 - $2 price adjustment Service Organizations Raffles for donated prize Teen Fundraising
Step 9 Helmet Distribution Day Generate Excitement and Enthusiasm Plan for advance preparation Ensure Delivery Invite Media
Step 10 Plan and Conduct Helmet Celebration Day Helmet Decorating Assemblies Bike Parade Incentives Group Photograph Invite Media
Step 11 Complete post-survey Who is wearing helmets now?
Step 12 Publicize the Success of Your Campaign Promote your organization! Promote your kids! Promote safe and fun cycling!
Step 13 Conduct Ongoing Incentive Programs Events Role of Law Enforcement
Sources of Volunteers Cycling Club Members Law Enforcement Officers - particularly Bike Patrol and School Resource Officers Park & Recreation Programs Adult and Teen Service Clubs Parent or School Board Organizations Local Political Leaders