Generating Support
College Activities
These activities should be completed collaboratively by faculty and administrators.
Activity 1
Using the Employer Engagement Worksheet developed in the Knowing Your Audience module, add columns for employers who provide support to your college’s foundation through scholarships, donation of supplies or materials, and other means.
Activity 2
Working with your foundation office, seek testimonials, develop press releases, and identify other ways of recognizing frequent and/or sizable donations. Share through multiple channels including social media.
Activity 3
Working with your faculty, compile a “wish list” of equipment, materials, and supplies for your program. Include your foundation office in this process so they can help you identify employers who may have interest in donating.
Activity 4
Encourage faculty to tour local employers’ facilities and note the types of equipment used. Some employers may be willing to provide access to their suppliers for discounts or to discuss rotating their used equipment.
Activity 5
Work with your faculty to determine whether they have kept track of program graduates and where they are working. Past students understand the needs of the program and can be tapped for adjunct faculty positions or faculty externship opportunities, and work-based learning opportunities for students.
Activity 6
Develop an Elevator Pitch focused on the company visibility gained by supporting CTE programs through equipment, materials, scholarships, and sponsorship. Your college foundation may already have one, but it is good for programs to have as well. The value proposition is that companies will be seen in the community as actively helping close the opportunity and skills gaps and engaging strategically with education and community partners.
Anticipated Outcomes
- Increased testimonials to assist with expanded employer involvement
- Increased awareness of your program by employers
- Increase in donations of all types
