Part VI - Recruiting Students to SCCS
The Basics
No number of emails can replace an actual conversation. This applies to members in your group as well as to people you are trying to recruit. Get to know them and figure out how they feel about SCCS. Listen to them as much as possible and really understand their perspective and interests. Convey your passion for the issue. Your attitude will certainly have a powerful impact on theirs. Emphasize action and momentum. The time is now; the opportunity is here! We can make a difference today.
Recruiting People
This is a list of different things you can talk about with students who are unfamiliar with SCCS. Tailor your talk to whomever you are speaking with and make sure you maintain their interest by asking them simple or specific questions.
Introduce yourself and remember to smile!
Ask how they became interested and how much they already know.
Explain that the campaign arose in response to the crisis of child mortality and the simple and cost-effective solutions available to stem the crisis.
Explain that we seek to provide a living chance to all children for the first time in history
Explain that our government already does a lot but it’s time the government truly acts according to its commitments and obligations
Explain that we are a new movement that is beginning and that will be led by students
Explain that we are establishing a network of students across the country to act for change
Explain that we are encouraging Congress to increase funding for children’s health
Emphasize that now is a really exciting time to participate:
Students have always played key roles in social movements (e.g. environmental, anti-apartheid, sweatshops)
President Bush has committed to increasing aid but has been taking money away from child survival programs
USAID’s effectiveness at lowering infant mortality rates with government programs and funds is well documented
Encourage students to learn more through our documents and our web page
Gather a small group of interested students to discuss interests and see if starting a new chapter is feasible
Engage in advocacy opportunities
Write an article for publications like the school newspaper.
Describe what your group is currently working on and how they can contribute.
If they show any amount of interest make sure you get their email or in the case of a phone call, setup another date in which you can call them again. Point them to our cool website and promise them that you will email them soon.
Always follow up with whatever you promise within two days. Email them appropriate documents that may be helpful.
How do you frame the issues? What is our main message? Check out Talking About SCCS.
Ideas? Need help? Contact our National Organizer by e-mail here.
Click here to go back to the guide's table of contents.
