1. 1 VON Canada Web Learning Series Community Respite Through Neighbours Helping Neighbours How to Host a Community Forum Second Session Author: Anne Vallentin Caregiver Education, VON Hamilton Developed: February 2009 For review/revision: February 2012

2. 2 Objectives Learn how rewarding it is to have a Forum Provide some tips and tools Get you thinking about creative ways to bring your community together

3. 3 Neighbours Helping Neighbours How to Have a Community Forum 6 Easy Steps

4. 4 You Can Do It! It’s a wonderful opportunity to bring the community together It’s fun It’s part of our mission!

5. 5 Think -- the 5 W’s + Do Why? Who? When? Where? What? Just Do It!

6. 6 A well planned forum can be a powerful tool Use the checklist Work with others – delegate your weaknesses Plan at least 2 hours for each hour of the event

7. 7 Why? To build awareness of caregiver needs in your community To rally your community partners to address the needs To showcase community options for caregivers

8. 8 Who? Who is your target audience? Who do you want to invite? Who could sponsor the forum? Who does what? Who will speak?

9. 9 When? When will you hold the forum? When choosing the date and time consider… Time lines for availability of key people Availability of facility What works best for your target audience

10. 10 Where? Where will the forum be held? Are there low-cost spaces? Seating capacity? Convenience and accessibility? Set-up required? Check facility particulars…

11. 11 What? What will the format be? What will the cost be? Will there be a panel? Exhibits? Door Prizes? Meal/refreshments? Speaker gifts?

12. 12 What? (cont’d) What will make it interactive? What are the needs of your audience/speakers? What will be provided to the forum attendees? What will make it fun? – for you too!

13. 13 Just Do It! Have a checklist Have an assistant Use a design loom template Be organized and proud of the great work you are doing

14. 14 Remember – you have planned other events Go forth and pollinate Neighbours Helping Neighbours! Have fun doing it

15. 15 Resources To help you in planning and communication the following resources are available: Event Planning Checklist Guide to Organizing Community Forums Communication Template Design Loom Template

16. 16 Questions or comments?