How do I participate in the National Day of Healing and Reconciliation?

• Regardless if you are a school or a church or any other organization, deciding to participate is the best first step to take! Now you are wondering how to get things started with your family, friends, and community.

How to Choose Events

• The first step in choosing an event is to decide the target group.
• This may be narrowed down to youth, families, or even your own life.
• Pick activities best suited for the participants you are intending to reach.
• You may want to choose a theme for the event as well.

Planning in Advance

• Planning is often the most difficult part of any event; it is also one of the most important. A well-planned event is usually successful resulting in a positive experience for the organizers and the participants.
• We suggest you start meeting with your organizing committee at least four months before the event.
• Meet every two to three weeks or as often as necessary. Remember, it is especially important to start planning well in advance for larger events.
• Establish deadlines.
• Develop a solid plan of action to keep you and your committee focused.
• Keep abreast of your progress by referring to your action plan and deadlines.
• Follow up on tasks and ask if anyone needs help.
• An action plan is a plan you and the organizing committee design to track your progress. The plan is a list of things to be done, who is responsible and when they are to be completed. Always keep your action plan handy at all meetings.
• Make changes as necessary, always keeping it up to date as tasks are completed or as they change.
• Remember to always thank your volunteers as progress is being made. You don't need to wait until after the event to give everyone a big pat-on-the-back!

Sample Time Lines The following table is an example of an action plan. It clearly lays out the tasks that have to be completed to stage a NDHR event. What Needs To Be Done Time Lines

February 1 - Hold the first meeting
February 15 - Decide on the role of committee members
March 1 - Decide on NDHR activities and schedule
March 15 - Decide on a plan of action
March 15 - Decide on fund raising activities
March 15 - Find volunteers and begin fund raising
April 1 - Organize volunteers for day-of activities
April 15 - Distribute promotional materials, arrange for speakers/performers, confirm location details
May 1 - Gather materials and confirm schedule
May 26 - The big day!
June 1 - Send thank yous and celebrate volunteers

TIPS TO KEEP IN MIND

• Make the work of the committee a learning experience for all of those involved in the planning, not just those attending your NDHR event.
• Don't get caught up in making everything perfect. Make sure the event is educational and enjoyable for the organizing committee, event volunteers, and the participants.
• Always allow for time after to evaluate the event, start to finish. At this time, set goals for what you would like to acheive next year by realizing what worked best or what you would do differently.
• Make sure to give yourself a pat on the back! NDHR is about healing our communities through healing ourselves. Appreciate all of your own hard work.