LLC Implements Community Connection Methods
A few small changes in the day-to-day use of technology will help connect our communities to landcare.
Capacity to Deliver - LEP_23-025_LLC02
The issue
Throughout New South Wales, and more broadly, there has been a change in the way people are engaging with organisations as volunteers. The Centre for Volunteering reported that whilst 63.9% of people in New South Wales volunteered in 2023, volunteer managers noticed a decrease in volunteer hours and found fewer people wanting to volunteer. Whilst this may be the case in some areas, there is also an opportunity at this pivotal time to consider how we connect to our communities.
The solution
Since March 2024, Corowa District Landcare’s new Local Landcare Coordinator has started implementing small stepping stones to build on the ways that people can better connect with and access Corowa District Landcare and its activities. These first steps have included digitising the group’s membership form, transferring the email newsletter to email platform, Mailchimp, and creating an events listing page on the Corowa District Landcare website. These actions enable access, and welcome and invite people who may not have previously connected with the group.
The impact
Membership forms: Membership shows community connection and support, and also gives our community a voice to guide landcare activities in the region. Instead of having to print a membership form or having to pick one up at events, the form is now also accessible at the click of a button. Additionally, a (very) short survey has been included as part of the membership form which helps define the areas of interest to our members and guides the group’s activities.
Events page: Having an events page on the Corowa District Landcare website has provided a go-to resource, encouraging participation in landcare activities by providing visitors to the website with event information that they may have not otherwise found.
Mailchimp newsletters: Transferring from traditional emails to Mailchimp has meant that we can now quantify readership to ensure that we are reaching our stakeholders, and similarly define areas of interest. This type of platform has also meant that we can have a self-sign-up option via our website for new readers. Our mailing list has been consistently growing and our readership is currently around 60%.
These actions have demonstrated the value of the LEP through being resourced to make administrative change, leading to positive outcomes of future landcare activities.
Key facts
- 63.9% of people in New South Wales volunteered in 2023.
- Small changes in the day-to-day use of technology can increase opportunities for people to connect to landcare.