Most Improvement Districts have something written in their Management District Plan that require the District to acquire “Non-Assessed” dollars. Some districts host different types of events to bring in some of those non-assessed dollars. While larger Districts have access to more resources to help cut the cost of these events, other Districts have to get creative in order to stay within budget. There are many ways that Districts can not just break even on an event, but actually make money to put towards their bottom line.
People will be drawn to be a part of something that is effecting change that they can see.
There is a key to getting the people on board with your next event. It is simply two words: Constant Communication. Stay with me here for a minute. You work with Vendors, Partners, Business Owners, Property Owners, Gov’t Agencies, Community Organizations in your district. If you don’t tell them the great things you are doing in your district, they won’t know it. Most of them won’t even consider why they should become involved with your event. Be sure you are constantly highlighting the small and big victories. When you highlight these things, people can’t help but want to be involved.
Consider sending them a simple email. Let everyone know about the 5 abandoned vehicles you got hauled off yesterday, or the 10 instances of graffiti that were removed this past week. In that email, be sure to give a shout out to the appropriate people. Mention the organization or government agency or even your vendor for the great help they were. Post pictures – lots of pictures. Take before and after pictures of things. Pictures speak volumes to people who aren’t involved in the everyday happenings of your district. When people get communication like this on a regular basis, you create a buzz that makes them feel like they are in on such a great thing!
There is so much negative news out there, that they will soon be looking forward to hearing from you just to brighten their day. I hope this helps!