youth group handbook - steps to success

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A BEGINNERS GUIDE TO

THE YOUTH ACTION GROUP 5 STEPS TO START A SUCCESSFUL YOUTH ACTION GROUP

MADE BY YOUTH FOR

YOUTH

2010 EDIT I ON

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

SECTION I:

HISTORY OF RED CROSS RED CRESCENT MOVEMENT

HISTORY OF RED CROSS RED CRESCENT MOVEMENT 7 A HISTORY TIMELINE OF THE MOVEMENT 8 THE GENEVA CONVENTIONS 10 RED CROSS , RED CRESCENT AND RED CRYSTAL EMBLEMS 12 THE RED CROSS RED CRESCENT MOVEMENT 13 RED CROSS FUNDAMENTAL PRINCIPLES 14 HUMANITARIAN VALUES 15

SECTION II:

5 STEPS TO START A YOUTH ACTION GROUP

INTRODUCTION TO YOUTH ACTION GROUPS

WHO SHOULD READ THIS? 17 THE CANADIAN RED CROSS MISSON STATEMENT 17 THE YOUTH VISION STATEMENT 17 WHAT IS A YOUTH ACTION GROUP? 18

STEP 1: HOW TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE RED CROSS

1.1 CONTACT LOCAL CANADIAN RED CROSS OFFICE 22 1.2 ATTEND MEETING WITH RED CROSS 23 1.3 LEARN ABOUT THE YOUTH ACTION GROUP MANDATE 24 1.4 ATTEND INTRODUCTION TO RED CROSS WORKSHOP 24

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STEP 2: HOW TO INTRODUCE THE YOUTH ACTION GROUP TO

YOUR SCHOOL

2.1 GET A TEACHER ADVISOR 25 2.2 RECRUIT NEW MEMBERS 26 2.3 GET PERMISSION FROM THE SCHOOL 26 2.4 ADVERTISE YOUR GROUP 27

STEP 3: HOW TO RUN YOUR FIRST MEETING

3.1 INTRODUCE THE RED CROSS 28 3.2 COMMITMENT 31 3.3 VOLUNTEER FORM 33 3.4 REPORTING SYSTEM 33

STEP 4: HOW TO RECRUIT YOUR FIRST EXECUTIVES

4.1 EXECUTIVE STRUCTURE AND JOB DESCRIPTIONS 34 4.2 EXECUTIVE APPLICATION FORM 36 4.3 AGENDA FOR FIRST EXECUTIVE MEETING 38

STEP 5: HOW TO PLAN YOUR FIRST EVENT

5.1 PLAN THE FIRST ACTIVITY WITH THE RED CROSS 40 5.2 CHOOSE A PAST ACTIVITY 41 5.3 ASK FOR RESOURCES 42 5.4 EVENT PLANNING SHEET 42

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SECTION III:

MAINTAINING YOUR GROUP

PLANNING YOUR FIRST YEAR

CALENDAR - RED CROSS SPECIAL DATES 44 SUCCESSFUL PAST ACTIV ITIES 46 REGULAR MEETINGS WITH ACTION ITEMS 48

PLANNING FOR SUCCESSIONS

WHY IS IT SO IMPORTANT TO PLAN FOR SUCCESSIONS? 49 GET TEACHER ADVISOR 49 GET NEW EXECUTIVES 50 GET NEW MEMBERS 50

SECTION IV:

GOING TO UNIVERSITY?

OVERVIEW O F UNIVERSITY GROUPS 52 HOW TO JOIN 54

APPENDIX:

MEMBER SIGN UP 56 YEAR-END REPORTING FORM 57 YEAR PLANNING CALENDAR (EXAMPLE) 59 SAMPLE EVENT TIMELINE 61 THE FOUR STEP MODEL FOR EVENTS 62

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

This handbook is the result of the collaborative work by youth

volunteers, teacher advisors and Canadian Red Cross staff in the

Region of York.

Part of this handbook is adapted from the Ontario Zone Youth Group

Handbook and the Introduction to Red Cross and Red Crescent

Movement Training Manual.

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SECTION I:

HISTORY OF THE RED CROSS

RED CRESCENT MOVEMENT

A H ISTORY T IMEL INE OF THE MOVEMENT

THE GENEVA CONVENTIONS

RED CROSS , RED CRESCENT AND RED CRYSTAL EMBLEMS

THE COMPONENTS OF THE RED CROSS RED CRESCENT

MOVEMENT

RED CROSS FUNDAMENTAL PRINCIPLES

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HISTORY OF RED CROSS RED CRESCENT

MOVEMENT

The Movement began with the actions and ideas of one man, Henry

Dunant, a Swiss businessman who was travelling to Italy in 1859 to

meet with Napoleon III during the Franco-Prussian war.

On June 24, 1859, the Austrian and French armies over 200,000

men altogetherclashed in Solferino, a town located in Northern

Italy. After 16 hours of fighting, the two armies retreated, leaving

40,000 people laying dead or wounded on the battlefield. That same

evening, Swiss national Henry Dunant arrived in the region for

business.

Dunant was appalled at the suffering he witnessed as he

passed through the battlefield at Solferino, and with the help

of some local townspeople, organized a relief effort to care

for the thousands of wounded soldiers. Dunant published a

book, "A Memory of Solferino", which recorded his

experiences. In his book, he proposed that a neutral society

of civilian volunteers be trained to provide medical

assistance in times of conflict. With four other friends in

Geneva, Dunant formed a committee and invited other

European countries to join. Representatives from 16

countries met in 1863 and the International Red Cross was

born.

This committee grew to officially become the International

Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in 1876.

A H ISTORY

1859

1862

1863

The Geneva International Conference

1864

1876

1885

1896

1899

1901

1909

1919

ISTORY T IMELINE OF THE MOVEMENT

Swiss businessman Henry Dunant witnesses the Battle of Solferino 1859

Henry Dunant publishes his book A Memory of Solferinopublic attention to the suffering of war and his idea to create a neutral medical service for the battlefield guaranteed by an international treaty among nations.

1862

The Red Cross is officially created, as International Committee for Relief of Military Wounded (which becomes the International Committee of the Red Cross in 1876).

1863

Geneva International Conference also establishes national committees.

The First Geneva Convention (for the amelioration of the condition of the wounded and sick in armed forces in the field) is adopted, including recognition of the Red Cross on a white background as the protective emblem of military medical services.

1864

The Red Crescent is first used as a protective emblem during war by the Ottoman Empire in the war between Russia and Turkey.1876

The Red Cross emblem is first used in Canada at the Battle of Batoche the Riel Rebellion, led by George Ryerson, eventual founder of the Canadian Red Cross.

1885

George Ryerson creates the Canadian Red Cross as the first of the British Red Cross.1896

The principles of the 1864 Geneva Convention are adapted to warfare.1899

Henry Dunant is named the co-winner of the first Nobel Peace Prize Frederic Passy, founder of the first French Peace Society).1901

The Canadian Red Cross Society is officially created with The passing of the Canadian Red Cross Act in Parliament.1909

The League of Red Cross Societies is formed.

The ICRC recognizes the Canadian Red Cross as an independent National Society of the Red Cross, thus allowing the CRC to join the League.1919

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Battle of Solferino in Italy.

A Memory of Solferino, bringing wide public attention to the suffering of war and his idea to create a neutral medical service for the battlefield guaranteed by an international treaty

International Committee for Relief of (which becomes the International Committee of the Red

also establishes national committees.

(for the amelioration of the condition of the wounded and sick in armed forces in the field) is adopted, including recognition of the Red Cross on a white background as the protective

is first used as a protective emblem during war by the Ottoman Empire in the war between Russia and Turkey.

Battle of Batoche during the Riel Rebellion, led by George Ryerson, eventual founder of the Canadian

as the first overseas branch

The principles of the 1864 Geneva Convention are adapted to maritime

Nobel Peace Prize (with Frederic Passy, founder of the first French Peace Society).

is officially created with The passing of the

independent National of the Red Cross, thus allowing the CRC to join the League.

1923

1929

1944

1949

1963

1965

1977

1991

1997

2004

2005

The League responds as a body for the first time in an international natural disaster, when an earthquake kills 200,000 people in Japan.

1923

The Geneva Convention of 1906 (relative to the protection of the wounded and sick in armed forces in the field) is revised, and for the first time, includes the treatment of prisoners of war.

The red crescent is officially adopted as an emblem under International Humanitarian Law.

1929

The ICRC is awarded the Nobel Peace Prize time as a tribute to its Humanitarian activities during World War II. It also won in 1917 after World War I.

1944

The Modern Geneva Conventions are adopted, concerning amelioration of the condition of wounded, sick and shipwrecked armed forces (I, II), treatment of prisoners of war (III), and protection of civilians in time of war (IV).

1949

The ICRC and the League jointly win the Nobel Peace Prize on the occasion of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movements 100th anniversary.

1963

The seven Fundamental Principles are formally proclaimed by the Movement.1965

The two Additional Protocols to the Geneva Conventions are adopted, strengthening the protection of civilians and others during international conflict (I), and expanding protection guaranteed to noninternational conflict (II).

1977

The League (1919) officially changes its name to the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies.

1991

The Seville Agreement formalizes the specific mandates and responsibilities of each component of the Movement in times of armed conflict and disasters, including which one acts as lead agency in a given situation.

1997

The Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement response to the Asian earthquake / tsunami becomes the largest relief operation ever.

2004-05

An additional emblem, the red crystal, is adopted by States Party to the Geneva Conventions in a new Additional Protocol (III).

2005

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The League responds as a body for the first time in an , when an earthquake kills

The Geneva Convention of 1906 (relative to the protection of the wounded and sick in armed forces in the field) is revised, and for the first time, includes the

is officially adopted as an additional under International Humanitarian Law.

Nobel Peace Prize for a second time as a tribute to its Humanitarian activities during World War II. It also won in 1917 after World War I.

are adopted, concerning amelioration of the condition of wounded, sick and shipwrecked armed forces (I, II), treatment of prisoners of war (III), and protection of civilians in time

Nobel Peace on the occasion of the Red Cross and Red Crescent

are formally

Additional Protocols to the Geneva are adopted, strengthening the protection

of civilians and others during international conflict (I), and expanding protection guaranteed to non-

The League (1919) officially changes its name to the of Red Cross and Red Crescent

formalizes the specific mandates and responsibilities of each component of the Movement in times of armed conflict and disasters, including which one acts as lead agency in a given

The Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement response to becomes the largest

, is adopted by States Party to the Geneva Conventions in a new

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THE GENEVA CONVENTIONS

The Geneva Conventions consist of treaties formulated in Geneva,

Switzerland that set the standards for international law for

humanitarian concerns. The conventions were the results of efforts by

Henri Dunant, who was motivated by the horrors of war he witnessed

at the Battle of Solferino. In times of war, certain humanitarian rules

must be observed, even with regard to the enemy. These rules are set

out in the Geneva Conventions of 1949 and their Additional Protocols

of 1977. There are four Geneva Conventions and two Additional

Protocols. The 1949 Geneva Conventions are founded on the idea of

respect for the individual and his dignity. Persons not directly taking

part in hostilities and those put out of action through sickness, injury,

captivity or any other cause must be respected and protected against

the effects of war; those who suffer must be aided and cared for

without discrimination.

The First Geneva Convention for the amelioration of the condition

of the wounded and sick in armed forces in the field was signed on

August 22, 1864 and comprised ten articles. The Convention was a

response to the request Dunant made in his book, A Memory of

Solferino, for the protection of those no longer engaged in combat.

The Second Geneva Convention covered the treatment of wounded,

sick and shipwrecked members of armed forces at sea. It was written

and adopted at the 1949 diplomatic conference held in Geneva,

Switzerland.

The Third Geneva Convention refers to the treatment of prisoners of

war. It was adopted in 1929 as an extension to the rights guaranteed

by the Hague Convention of 1907. It was revised in 1949, with the

modified form adopted on August 12, 1949 by the Diplomatic

Conference for the Establishment of International Conventions for the

Protection of Victims of War.

The Fourth Geneva Convention relates to the protection of civilians

during times of war and under any occupation by a foreign power.

For example, collective punishments are a war crime. Article 33

states: "No protected person may be punished for an offence he or she

has not personally committed," and "collective penalties and likewise

all measures of intimidation or of terrorism are prohibited."

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The law of armed conflict/International Humanitarian Law applies

similar protections to an internal conflict. Common Article 3 of the

Fourth Geneva Conventions of 1949 requires fair trials for all

individuals before punishments.

The two Additional Protocols to the Geneva Conventions were

added in 1977. These Additional Protocols extend protection to any

person affected by an armed conflict. Furthermore, they stipulate that

the parties to the conflict and the combatants shall not attack civilian

populations and civilian objects and shall conduct their military

operation in conformity with the recognized rules and bylaws of

humanity.

NOTE: The Geneva Conventions are the precursor of modern International

Humanitarian Law. International

Humanitarian law also consists of other treaties, conventions and agreements around

weapons control, chemical and biological warfare, anti-personnel landmines (1997

Ottawa Treaty), exploding bullets, blinding lasers, military recruitment age (2000

Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child), and criminal justice

(1998 Rome Statute on the International Criminal Court). In summary, IHL regulates the

treatment of the wounded, prohibits attacks against civilians, the use of certain weapons,

and ensures the protection of non-combatants, Red Cross/Red Crescent emblem and

medical personnel, and prisoners of war.

RED CROSS

The Red Cross emblem officially appeared in 1864. The Red Cross on a

white background is the reverse of the Swiss flag and was chosen a

sign of identification and protection to personnel, material and

facilities used to care for sick and wounded in times of armed conflict.

In 1929, the Red Crescent was officially approved for use in Muslim

countries (used in 22 countries), mainly becau

perceived to have Christian connotations. There was much

controversy, but both symbols are official and both have the same

status within the movement. A national society must use one of the

official symbols to be officially recognized by t

Movement.

In December 2005

societies who do not wish to use the Red Cross or Red Crescent

emblems to be recognized and admitted to the Movement. This

consolidates the Movement's universality

This Protocol provides for new flexibility, allowing national societies

to include, if they wish, a combination of emblems recognized by the

Geneva Conventions

Red Crystal can also stand on its own.

Red Cross

ROSS , RED CRESCENT AND RED CRYSTAL EMBLEMS


white background is the reverse of the Swiss flag and was chosen a



the Red Crescent was officially approved for use in Muslim

countries (used in 22 countries), mainly because the cross was




official symbols to be officially recognized by the Red Cross

Movement.

In December 2005, the Red Crystal was adopted, allowing for national



consolidates the Movement's universality.



eneva Conventions inside the Red Crystal for their identification. The

Red Crystal can also stand on its own.

Red Crescent Red Cross Red Crystal

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MBLEMS


white background is the reverse of the Swiss flag and was chosen as a



the Red Crescent was officially approved for use in Muslim

se the cross was




he Red Cross

the Red Crystal was adopted, allowing for national





rystal for their identification. The

Red Crystal

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THE RED CROSS RED CRESCENT MOVEMENT

THREE COMPONENTS

The Red Cross Red Crescent Movement provides humanitarian relief

assistance to the most vulnerable throughout the world. This is made

possible through the work of three separate entities.

1. The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), which

responds in times of conflict.

2. The International Federation of the Red Cross and Red

Crescent Societies (the International Federation), which responds

to natural disasters and crises related to displacement.

3. The National Societies of the Red Cross/Red Crescent may assist

the ICRC or the International Federation in their efforts. The National

Societies also carry out their own programs meeting the needs of the

local community.

The International Committee of the Red Cross and the

International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent

Societies have been described as the two heads of the Red Cross Red

Crescent Movement. The National Societies have been described as

the many arms.

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RED CROSS FUNDAMENTAL PRINCIPLES

HUMANITY

Born of a desire to bring assistance without discrimination to the wounded on

the battlefield, the Movement endeavours, in its international and national

capacity, to prevent and alleviate human suffering wherever it may be found. Its

purpose is to protect life and health and to ensure respect for the human being.

It promotes mutual understanding, friendship, cooperation and lasting peace

amongst all peoples.

IMPARTIALITY

It makes no discrimination as to nationality, race, religious beliefs, class or

political opinions. It endeavours to relieve the suffering of individuals, being

guided solely by their needs, and to give priority to the most urgent cases of

distress.

NEUTRALITY

In order to continue to enjoy the confidence of all, the Movement may not take

sides in hostilities or engage at any time in controversies of a political, racial,

religious or ideological nature.

INDEPENDENCE

The Movement is independent. The National Societies, while auxiliaries in the

humanitarian services of their governments and subject to the laws of their

respective countries, must always maintain their autonomy so that they may be

able at all times to act in accordance with the principles of the Movement.

VOLUNTARY SERVICE

It is a voluntary relief Movement not prompted in any manner by desire for

gain.

UNITY

There can be only one Red Cross or Red Crescent Society in any one country. It

must be open to all. It must carry on its humanitarian work throughout its

territory.

UNIVERSALITY

The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, in which all Societies

have equal status and share equal responsibilities and duties in helping each

other, is worldwide.

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HUMANITARIAN VALUES

The values that support the humanitarian action of the Movement

were defined by the Federation in its Strategy 2010 document, and

are identified as follows:

Protection of life, health and human dignity

Respect for the human being

Non-discrimination on the basis of nationality, race, gender,

religious beliefs, class or political opinions

Mutual understanding, friendship, cooperation and lasting

peace among all people

Voluntary service

Overall, these values are not different than the Fundamental

Principles they helped to forge. In fact, the Fundamental Principles of

the Red Cross Red Crescent Movement have derived from values

shared by human beings everywhere over time, both individually and

collectively and we feel their presence embedded within the

Fundamental Principles. Sometimes, people express similar or

complementary values through other concepts such as compassion,

active acceptance, empathy, inclusiveness, generosity, hope and global

citizenship, to name just a few.

Similarly, among the seven Fundamental Principles, the Principle of

Humanity illustrates the very spirit of the Movement. Right from the

Movements origin, the Principle of Humanity aimed at providing

relief without discrimination to the wounded on the battlefield.

Discrimination-free Humanity means that no negative distinction may

be made between people of a different class, nor on the basis of any

other criteria.

SECTION II:

5 STEPS TO

ACTION

INTRODUCTION T

STEP 1:

STEP 2:

STEP 3:

STEP 4:

STEP 5:

TEPS TO START A YOUTH

CTION GROUP

NTRODUCTION TO YOUTH ACTION GROUPS

HOW TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE RED

HOW TO INTRODUCE THE YOUTH ACTION

YOUR SCHOOL

HOW TO RUN YOUR F IRST MEETING

HOW TO RECRUIT YOUR F IRST EXECUTIVES

HOW TO PLAN YOUR F IRST EVENT

16

OUTH

ED CROSS

CTION GROUP TO

XECUTIVES

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INTRODUCTION TO YOUTH

ACTION GROUPS WHO SHOULD READ THIS?

If you are a high school student, teacher, or adult who is passionate

about making a difference and wants to motivate others to do so, this

Youth Action Group Guide is for you. This is a very simple guide with

step-by-step instructions that will teach you how to start and

successfully run a Red Cross Youth Action Group at your own high

school.

With hard work and perseverance, you will be able to establish a

successful Red Cross Youth Action Group. Your school and its students

will discover new possibilities through your Youth Action Group and

will be the voices of the next generation.

THE CANADIAN RED CROSS M ISSION STATEMENT

To improve the lives of the vulnerable by mobilizing the

power of humanity in Canada and around the world

THE YOUTH V ISION STATEMENT

Youth Action Groups mobilize the power of humanity by

educating Canadians and undertaking activities in response

to local and global humanitarian issues.

WHAT IS A

PURPOSE

A Youth Action Group is run by high school students like you. The

purpose of a Youth Action Group is to

humanitarian is

generation of humanitarian leaders.

EXAMPLES

Red Cross

the work of the Red Cross/Red Crescent Movement and in engaging

youth on important domestic a

Together, the Canadian Red Cross and

hand in hand to understand and apply fundamental principles as they

respond to various humanitarian issues in Canada and around the

world.

There are many examples of

HAT IS A YOUTH ACTION GROUP?

URPOSE


purpose of a Youth Action Group is to raise awareness on

humanitarian issues and take action as well as empower the next

generation of humanitarian leaders.

XAMPLES

Red Cross Youth Action Groups play an important part in furthering


youth on important domestic and international humanitarian issues.

Together, the Canadian Red Cross and Youth Action Group



There are many examples of Youth Action Group involvements.

Youth Action Group

Humanitarian

Issues

Promotion

RespectED

Youth Programs

First Aid & CPR

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raise awareness on

sues and take action as well as empower the next

s play an important part in furthering


nd international humanitarian issues.

Youth Action Groups work



involvements.

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EXAMPLES OF YOUTH ACTION GROUPS IN ACTION

Activity Description

Humanitarian Issues Promotion Fun and exciting two-day youth

leadership workshop

Students learn about the

different humanitarian issues in

the world through experiential

activities and information

Students take step towards

becoming Humanitarian Issues

Promotion youth facilitators

Humanitarian Speaker Series Humanitarian workers speak of

their experiences and difficulties

on the field

Especially spectacular because

of the level of danger and

excitement some humanitarian

workers go through

Sudan Week of Action Astonishing statistics and issues

in Sudan

Many activities are run to show

the humanitarian crisis in the

nation.

At the end of the week, all the

students know the level of

urgency in Sudan

These are just a few of some great examples that have worked well

and with every new

and events are created.

STRUCTURE

A Youth Action Group

1. Youth Leaders

2. Youth Volunteers

3. Teacher Advisors

4. Red Cross Staff Member

It is structured around the concept of mutual respect. Therefore,

everyone in this group has an equally important role to play, as shown

by the diagram


and with every new Youth Action Group, even more great activities

and events are created.

TRUCTURE

Youth Action Group consists of four key roles:

Youth Leaders

Youth Volunteers

Teacher Advisors / Adult Advisors

Red Cross Staff Member



diagram below. Everyone is encouraged to take an active role.

Youth Action Group

Red Cross Staff

Member

Youth Leaders

Youth Volunteers

Teacher Advisors /

Adult Advisors

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, even more great activities



below. Everyone is encouraged to take an active role.

Youth Leaders

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SUMMARY OF ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Role Responsibility

Youth Leaders

(Chairs and

Executives)

Approach Red Cross Staff member and initiate

the Youth Action Group

Organize events, hold meetings, and recruit

volunteers

Keep in touch with the local Canadian Red Cross

Youth

Volunteers

Give feedback and suggestions to youth leaders.

Help youth leaders organize and run events or

meetings

Take on responsibilities in the absence of a youth

leader

Teacher Advisor

OR

Adult Advisor

Keep Youth Action Group within school rules

Advise on planned activities

Assist in conflict resolution

Participate in selection of executives

Provide suggestions and guidance

Motivate Youth Action Groups as a role model

Assist Youth Action Groups with running events

and activities

Red Cross Staff

Member

Keep Youth Action Groups on task and within

boundaries of the fundamental principles and

guidelines

Assist youth leaders and volunteers in starting

the Youth Action Group

They are always open to suggestions and

feedback

Provide ongoing support to all groups

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STEP 1: HOW TO GET IN

TOUCH WITH THE RED CROSS SECTION OVERVIEW

STEP 1.1 CONTACT LOCAL CANADIAN RED CROSS OFFICE

STEP 1.2 ATTEND MEETING WITH CANADIAN

RED CROSS

STEP 1.3 LEARN ABOUT THE YOUTH ACTION GROUP

MANDATE

STEP 1.4 ATTEND INTRODUCTION TO RED CROSS WORKSHOP

If you learn a skill without learning the way, you have learned

nothing

- The Book of Five Rings

This section addresses the first step in starting a youth action group

getting in touch with the Canadian Red Cross. You will be guided by

the Canadian Red Cross through continuous support and mentorship.

1.1 CONTACT LOCAL CANADIAN RED CROSS OFFICE

Contact your local Canadian Red Cross office and tell them you wish to

start a Youth Action Group. The following are some general contact

numbers for you to call, depending on where you live.

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Region Address Contact

Ontario Zone 5700 Cancross Court

Mississauga, Ontario

L5R 3E9

Tel: (905) 890-1000

Fax: (905) 890-1008

York Branch 13311 Yonge Street, Suite

204

Richmond Hill, ON

L4E 3L6

Tel: (905) 830-9565 or

Tel: 1-800-361-9448

Fax: (905) 895-3747

[email protected]

Guelph- Wellington

Branch

15 Yarmouth Street

Guelph, ON

N1H 4G2

Tel: (519) 836-3523

Fax: (519) 836-7353

Toronto Region

21 Randolph Avenue

Toronto, Ontario

M6P 4G4

Tel: (416) 480-2500

Fax: (416) 480-2777

Hamilton Branch 400 King Street East

Hamilton, ON

L8N 1C3

Tel: (905) 522-8485

Fax: (905) 522-2826

Niagara Region

Branch

211 Church St

St. Catharines, ON

L2R 3E8

Tel: (905) 680-4099

Toll Free Number: 1 888

835-3073

http://www.redcross.ca/article.asp?id=136&tid=00

1.2 ATTEND MEETING W ITH CANADIAN RED CROSS

When you are thinking about starting a Youth Action Group, it is

mandatory to attend a meeting with the Canadian Red Cross Branch

Youth Action Group to see current projects and to get a real feel for

the atmosphere of the Red Cross. Then, you might want to become

more involved and start the process of creating one in your own

school!

To attend the meeting, call your Regions coordinator and inquire

about location and time. When you go, be ready to be enthralled by

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the various projects youths are working on. There is something for

everyone.

1.3 LEARN ABOUT THE YOUTH ACTION GROUP

MANDATE

The Youth Action Group has been a tool that can be used as the voice

of the students and is a forum for youth development through which

youth are recruited, trained, and organized in support of the Red

Cross/Red Crescent Movement in conjunction with Branch support.

1.4 ATTEND INTRODUCTION TO RED CROSS WORKSHOP

The final step you must take to start your Youth Action Group is to

attend the Introduction to Red Cross/Red Crescent Workshop. This is

a mandatory workshop for all volunteers to acquaint them with the

International Red Cross/Red Crescent Movement. All executives are

expected to attend. (See flyer)

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STEP 2: HOW TO INTRODUCE

THE YOUTH ACTION GROUP

TO YOUR SCHOOL SECTION OVERVIEW

STEP 2.1 GET A TEACHER ADVISOR

STEP 2.2 RECRUIT NEW MEMBERS

STEP 2.3 GET PERMISSION FROM THE SCHOOL

STEP 2.4 ADVERTISE YOUR GROUP

Section 2 is an overview of how to introduce a new Youth Action Group

into your school. It outlines how to recruit a teacher advisor, other

students and focuses on the fundamentals necessary in beginning a

Youth Action Group.

2.1 GET A TEACHER ADVISOR

In order for a Youth Action Group to function, a teacher advisor is

required. In short, the role of which a teacher advisor plays, involves

the oversight of the Youth Action Group and its responsibilities within

the school. He/she should be approached with a prepared proposition

of activities, mandates, and goals.

Using the proposal as a guide more so than a strict plan, it can be used

to expand on the set ideas and develop interest in the Red Cross

project. Once a teacher agrees to become a teacher advisor for the

Youth Action Group they must understand their responsibilities. An

arranged meeting with the Red Cross will help clarify all areas of

inquiry.

2.2 RECRUIT

A common question at this point is how do I get people to join

The answer, luckily,

method of spreading news and just as useful when trying to recruit

members into your cause. Meet new people, talk to your friends and

make use of the morning announcements/events as well as posters

and flyers.

2.3 GET

To get permission to start a Red Cross

school, you

school principle. Here

to obtain approval.

Prepare a proposal teacher. Include information such as purpose, goals and activities

Approach a teacher proposal and expand on the set of ideas creating interest in your goals.

ECRUIT NEW MEMBERS

ommon question at this point is how do I get people to join

The answer, luckily, is just as simple. Word of mouth is a very effective




lyers.

ET PERMISSION FROM THE SCHOOL

To get permission to start a Red Cross Youth Action Group

, you must acquire the approval of the student council and

school principle. Here is a template in which you should t

in approval.

Prepare a proposal to present to a teacher. Include information such as description, purpose, goals and activities

Approach a teacher with the proposal and expand on the set of ideas creating interest in your goals.

Arrange a meeting to clarify the responsibilities of a teacher advisor and sign off on the idea.

26

ommon question at this point is how do I get people to join?

is just as simple. Word of mouth is a very effective




Youth Action Group within a

must acquire the approval of the student council and

should take in order

to present to a

with the

proposal and expand on the set of ideas creating

to clarify the

responsibilities of a teacher advisor and sign off on

2.4 ADVERTISE

In order to attract the attention of your teachers and peers to

recognize Red Cross, posters and announcements are very helpful.

There are also many other techniques to attract members which

include handouts and wor

Prepare what you are about to show the student council and principal.

Preparation

Show them why starting a youth group would be an appealing idea.

Give them reasons such as how it would help towards the school's image.

Show time

Try your best to convince them to approve, and thank them for their time.

Conclude the meeting

DVERTISE YOUR GROUP




include handouts and word of mouth.

Prepare what you are about to show the student council and principal.

Preparation

Show them why starting a youth group would be an appealing idea.

Give them reasons such as how it would help towards the school's image.

Show time

Try your best to convince them to approve, and thank them for their time.


27




Prepare what you are about to show the student council

Show them why starting a youth group would be an

Give them reasons such as how it would help towards the

Try your best to convince them to approve, and thank

28

STEP 3: HOW TO RUN YOUR

FIRST MEETING SECTION OVERVIEW

STEP 3.1 INTRODUCE THE CANADIAN RED CROSS (BASED ON

STEP 1.4)

STEP 3.2 COMMITMENT

STEP 3.3 VOLUNTEER FORM

STEP 3.4 REPORTING SYSTEM

The first meeting is usually a get-to-know what the Canadian Red

Cross is all about and also to meet new people. Generally, most people

will be unsure and uneasy at first and the goal is to clear up facts

about the Canadian Red Cross. This meeting is to provide a fun,

interactive environment that empowers and motivates interested

youth to get involved.

3.1 INTRODUCE THE CANADIAN RED CROSS

For your first meeting, you will need an agenda to be prepared. Have

this done a few days to a week done in advanced so your teacher/staff

advisor can approve of it. It is important that you introduce the Red

Cross (International, Canadian and Branch) as well as the

fundamental principles in this meeting. An example template of an

agenda is shown below:

AGENDA

Quickly introduce the staff and core group.

Introduction

Helps break the uneasiness amongst the group

Allows people to get to know each other

IceBreakers

Orientation of the Red Cross (International, Canada and Branch)

Presentation Format (Videos, Powerpoints, Speeches, Activities)

Ensure Fundamental Principles have been presented and discussed

The Red Cross

Explain how it started, what it does and what it plans to do

Youth Group Information

Explain how it is important to be committed

Expectations (eg. Attendance)

Being part of the group is rewarding but requires work

Commitment

When the next meeting will be

Follow


Allow members oppuritunty to sign up

Wrap

FOR THE F IRST MEETING

Quickly introduce the staff and core group.

Introduction


Allows people to get to know each other

IceBreakers

Orientation of the Red Cross (International, Canada and Branch)

Presentation Format (Videos, Powerpoints, Speeches, Activities)

Ensure Fundamental Principles have been presented and discussed

The Red Cross

Explain how it started, what it does and what it plans to do

Youth Group Information

Explain how it is important to be committed

Expectations (eg. Attendance)


Commitment

When the next meeting will be

Follow-up


Allow members oppuritunty to sign up

Wrap-Up

29


Orientation of the Red Cross (International, Canada and

Presentation Format (Videos, Powerpoints, Speeches,

Ensure Fundamental Principles have been presented and

Explain how it started, what it does and what it plans to


30

ICEBREAKER EXAMPLES

Icebreakers help everyone get to know each others name. Also,

icebreakers are fun and interactive. There are many types of

icebreakers and here is an example of one.

Ball Tossing

Throw a ball to someone and call out their name, then that person will

toss the ball to someone else and call out their name. For more

excitement, increase speed and number of balls being thrown.

For more icebreaker ideas, please check online, there are a mutiltude

of possible online icebreakers you can check out.

Person A

Person E

Person D

Person C

Person B

31

RED CROSS PRESENTATION IDEAS

PowerPoint

o Used to enhance a presentation or display visuals

Activities

o Interactive activities that involve everyone

Speech

o Motivating speech can be made on the information of

the Canadian Red Cross

o Mention important facts and ask questions

Videos

o A great way to promote the history of Red Cross is

through the video A Story of an Idea. This video and

others can be obtained from your Local Canadian Red

Cross Office.

Notes:

Try a combination of all four techniques

Contact Local Branch for assistance or materials you may need

Try not to make this meeting too long, less than 1 hour

o Take Attendance and follow up

o Thank your club for their attention and time in

attending this meeting

You may want to get some friends to help you with this

meeting if your club does not have an executive team

3.2 COMMITMENT

Your commitment is extremely important in running a Red Cross

club/branch. The Canadian Red Cross is built on a foundation of

volunteers such as yourselves. The Canadian Red Cross has developed

responsibilities, rules and attendance standards for each member.

Being part of a Youth Action Group can be rewarding but it also takes

work and commitment.

RESPONSIBILIT IES

It is vital that you and your group dedicate two to five hours a month

planning or promoting activities of the Red Cross.

run throughout the course of the year and the number of activities

should increase according to the three

SAMPLE T

For event and activities, they can follow the Canadian Red Cross

calendar of events such as Sudan Week of A

Munitions Campaign OR they can be something general that Red Cross

does all year long. An example would be the Malaria Bites campaign.

Contact your Regional Youth Councillor and/or Zone Youth Councillor to arrange a meeting to walk you through the manual

One large activity planned during the first half of the year and

ESPONSIBILIT IES HOW MANY HOURS, HOW MANY


planning or promoting activities of the Red Cross. Activities must be

oughout the course of the year and the number of activities

should increase according to the three-year plan below.

THREE YEAR PLAN


calendar of events such as Sudan Week of Action, Landmines/Cluster



Year 1

One small activity during the first half of the year

Another small activity during the second half

One appeal or humanitarian issues activity


Year 2

Two small activities (one during each half of the year)

One large activity planned during the first half of the year and implemented during the second half

Two Appeal or humanitarian issues activities

Year 3

Four activities

Three youth/humanitarian/appeal related activitie

32

ANY ACTIVITIES


ctivities must be

oughout the course of the year and the number of activities

year plan below.


ction, Landmines/Cluster



One small activity during the first half of the year

Another small activity during the second half

One appeal or humanitarian issues activity


Two small activities (one during each half of the year)

One large activity planned during the first half of the year and

Two Appeal or humanitarian issues activities

Three youth/humanitarian/appeal related activities

33

MEMBERSHIP REQUIREMENTS

Members must not miss two meetings in a row

Youth action required to hold at least one full member meeting per

month

ATTENDANCE

Meeting attendance is an important and vital in managing a Youth

Action Group. Youth Action Group members must be in attendance to

receive updates and information about upcoming events. Attendance

must be regular and members cannot miss more than two meetings in

a row. Awards of recognition to these dedicated students are

available for distribution at the end of the year. At this meeting, create

an attendance list to keep track of the members that attend.

VOLUNTEER HOURS

Many students and club members will ask if they get volunteer hours

if they come to meetings. Students are only eligible to receive hours in

assisting in events such as awareness campaigns but not from

attending meetings. The hours are not given out by the Canadian Red

Cross, but by your Youth Action Groups teacher advisor or adult

advisor if he/she approves of it.

3.3 VOLUNTEER FORM

For those who wish to join directly to the Canadian Red Cross, please

contact your Local Canadian Red Cross Office.

3.4 REPORTING SYSTEM

Please check the appendix for the format of the year-end report, used

to ensure that every Youth Action Group is running smoothly and

complies with the fundamental principles of the Canadian Red Cross.

Every group is asked to report their events and activities.

STEP 4:

YOUR FSECTION

STEP 4.1

STEP 4.2

STEP 4.3

4.1 EXECUTIVE

President/Co

The president

and have

should be responsible for meeting agendas, lead

prioritizing its goals and keep

also be well informed of all

working knowledge of the Red Cross constitution, set the meeting

agendas in

general meetings

and Local level and should

and act as a facilitator for all workshops/events.

Note: The President(s) are required to be a Red Cross Volunteer!

Public Relations

4: HOW TO RECRUIT

FIRST EXECUTIVESECTION OVERVIEW

4.1 EXECUTIVE STRUCTURE AND JOB DESCRIPTIONS

4.2 APPLICATION PROCESS (APPLICATION

4.3 AGENDA FOR F IRST EXECUTIVE MEETING

XECUTIVE STRUCTURE AND JOB DESCRIPTIONS

President/Co-President:

The president and co-president are the principle leader

overall responsibility for the clubs administration. They

should be responsible for meeting agendas, leading the club in

prioritizing its goals and keeping the executive on track. They should

also be well informed of all Canadian Red Cross activities


agendas in conjunction with the secretary and manage executive

meetings. They represent the Canadian Red Cross at school

and Local level and should be a supportive leader for all members,

and act as a facilitator for all workshops/events.


President/

Co-president

Public Relations

Fundraising Officer

Meeting Coordinator

Treasurer/ Secretary

34

ECRUIT

XECUTIVES

ESCRIPTIONS

PPLICATION FORM)

EETING

ESCRIPTIONS

leaders of the club

overall responsibility for the clubs administration. They

the club in

the executive on track. They should

Canadian Red Cross activities, have a good


manage executive/

Canadian Red Cross at school

r for all members,


Treasurer/ Liaison

35

Secretary/Treasurer:

In this position, the candidate will need to be organized and reliable.

At the same time, he/she will need to have excellent communication

skills and be able to relay information between the teacher advisor,

the executive members and the Red Cross members. He/she will be

responsible for typing up meeting agendas as well as recording

minutes for weekly meetings. The clubs permanent records such as

membership roster, contact information and reports will be kept by

the Secretary/Treasurer. As the treasurer, they will be needed to

maintain record the state of funds, income and spending of the club.

They will be working closely with finances of the club.

Public Relations/Fundraising Officer:

As the Public Relations representative, this candidate will need to be

interpersonal and unafraid to approach others. The public relations

officer will be in charge of recruiting members for the next year. They

will also be responsible for making posters, keeping display boards,

and talking to school officials as needed.

The Public Relations Officer has to effectively represent the Canadian

Red Cross, have goals aligned with Red Crosss objectives, maintain

relationships, be communicative, and be organized.

This officer will be working closely with the Secretary/Treasurer in

club finances regarding fundraising. He/she will be required to

propose fundraising/avocation plans and organizing them.

Meeting Coordinator:

In this position, the candidate will need to be approachable, fair and

knowledgeable. He/she must be dedicated and willing to conduct

research into the workings of the Canadian Red Cross and willing to

be a facilitator for the rest of the members. He/she will be in charge of

running training meetings as well as developing training materials for

workshops. This includes helping members develop knowledge on the

fundamental principles and structure of the Canadian Red Cross as

well as its councils, and the issues our club will represent.

36

He/she will be responsible in maintaining the attendance of members

as well as contacting any who are neglecting meetings.

Liaison:

As liaison, it is extremely important that you keep in touch with your

Local Canadian Red Cross Branch regularly. Your local Canadian Red

Cross Office will assist you and provide you with the support your

group needs to be successful. This position requires the liaison to

maintain regular contact with the office, conveying information

between their Youth Action Group and the Canadian Red Cross.

Note: The rest of the executive team is highly encouraged to become

volunteers for the Red Cross.

4.2 APPLICATION PROCESS (APPLICATION FORM)

Name (First and Last): __________________________ Grade: ______ Homeroom: __________

E-mail Address: __________________________________

Position Applying For: President/Co-president Secretary/Treasurer

Public Relations Officer Liaison Other (Specify):______________

Would you like to be considered for another position? Yes No

Why do you want to join this Youth Action Group?

_________________________________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________________________

What skills can you bring to this Youth Action Group?

_________________________________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________________________

Please list on the back the current clubs/teams/extra-curricular

activities you are involved in: (State if you an executive member and

include your current position)

37

RED CROSS EXECUTIVE INTERVIEW QUESTIONS

General (for all):

1. What do you know about the goal/structure of the Canadian

Red Cross?

2. What experiences have you had to make you a good candidate

for the position youre applying for?

3. Do you have something youre passionate about? (Doesnt have

to be academic)

4. What is a hobby you have participated longest in, why did you

stay with it?

5. What is something you wished more people would know?

Why?

Public Relations Officer:

1. For this position, you have to have strong interpersonal skills.

Give one example where you have demonstrated those skills.

2. What sorts of challenges do you predict in working with a new

club?

3. How would you work towards promoting the Canadian Red

Cross in terms of getting more members?

4. What do you feel is most challenging when communicating

with others?

5. How would you present the Canadian Red Cross as a club to

gain teacher interest?

Secretary/Treasurer:

1. If you were counting the money from a previous fundraising

event and found some money missing, what would you do?

2. How organized are you? Do you use your agenda regularly?

3. Are you proficient with word-processing software?

38

President / Co-President:

1. Why do you feel your leadership skills are exemplary (give an

example situation)?

2. How organized are you? Do you use your agenda regularly?

3. What do you think is most important in promoting healthy

dynamics within a team?

4. Do you know the Canadian Red Cross mission statement?

5. How will you motivate executives when the club is lacking

membership?

Meeting Coordinator / Liaison:

1. How well are you able to convey information?

2. How is your time management?

4.3 AGENDA FOR F IRST EXECUTIVE MEETING

An effective meeting agenda should be a blueprint or path of the

activities that will take place during the meeting.

It should serve the following functions:

the meeting leader or group is to think out what needs to be

accomplished

informs executives what to expect and allows them to prepare

over the year

it reminds executives of what there is left to cover and a

timeline

An executive meeting template is provided for you on the next page.

EXECUTIVE

ex. Red Cross Youth Action Group Meeting Agenda

Name

Where is this meeting held?

Location

When is this meeting held?

Date

When time will this meeting take place start and how long is it expected to go on for.

Starting and Ending time

List the items to be covered during the meeting (make sure executive members know what is expected of them beforehand).

State a suggested time for each item on the list to make sure time does not run out.

Body

XECUTIVE MEETING TEMPLATE


Name

Where is this meeting held?

Location

When is this meeting held?

Date

When time will this meeting take place start and how long is it expected to go on for.

Starting and Ending time

List the items to be covered during the meeting (make sure executive members know what is expected of them beforehand).

State a suggested time for each item on the list to make sure time does not run out.

Body

39


When time will this meeting take place start and how long is

List the items to be covered during the meeting (make sure executive members know what is expected of them

State a suggested time for each item on the list to make sure

40

STEP 5: HOW TO PLAN YOUR

FIRST EVENT SECTION OVERVIEW

STEP 5.1 PLAN THE F IRST ACTIVITY WITH THE RED CROSS

STEP 5.2 CHOOSE A PAST ACTIVITY

STEP 5.3 ASK FOR RESOURCES

STEP 5.4 EVENT PLANNING SHEET

5.1 PLAN THE FIRST ACTIVITY WITH THE RED CROSS

Sometimes, the most challenging aspect of running a Youth Action

Group is doing exactly what the group is supposed to do! It is

important to remember that the Youth Action Group is meant to be an

action-oriented group. In this case, the key goal would be

developing your groups first activity. Being group oriented is the first

step to your success. By taking just a few steps, you can ensure that

everyone has fun while creating a great first activity.

1. BRAINSTORMING Think of and record EVERY idea you have.

2. ANALYZING - Clarify your idea and discuss with your

executives and members. Check if your ideas are feasible.

3. FOCUSING Narrow down ideas

4. DEVELOPING - Goals, time-lines, needs, and action-steps.

(Four Ws and How)

5. DELGATING Check over your goals and assign tasks

6. CONFIRMING - Make sure all contacts have confirmed and

your activity is approved by your advisors and school

council/administration

41

7. PROBLEM IDENTIFICATION- Simulate (mentally or

physically) your whole activity and identify issues which may

arise and their solutions

8. FINALIZING Gather people and run through the whole

activity/event

9. IMPLEMENTING Stay goal oriented and organized. Have

FUN!

10. EVALUATING - Review how your activity went and find your

strengths and weaknesses for the future.

The Youth Action Group is a supported structure. Meaning whenever

you want to carry out something, always consider your support

system and its capabilities. When you start brainstorming, keep in

mind to ask yourself the following few questions as they can help you

make sure everything runs smoothly.

What are my available resources? (Personnel and materials)

What type of activity? (Fundraising, awareness, training...)

Whos the target audience? (Members, school, community)

What will be the duration of your activity? (Day, week, month)

5.2 CHOOSE A PAST ACTIVITY

Cant quite think of an activity? Why not start off with an activity that

has been successful in the past. There are many activities which other

Red Cross Youth Action Groups have organized. You can recreate

their events or utilize some of their ideas.

42

5.3 ASK FOR RESOURCES

Examine the answers that you had come up with for the question

What are my available resources? How do they compare to the

answers for your other questions? If it seems that you do not have

enough resources for your very first activity, dont worry! You can

increase and seek out new resources by harnessing the power of

humanity by speaking to the people around you.

If youre seeking resources, whether this is materials or volunteers,

start by letting everyone know what are your goals and your plans

first. This will help other better help you. You can brainstorm people

whom you can approach by looking at the structure of your school

and moving up the hierarchy. Start with your peers, then approach

teachers, you school administrator, the superintendent or even your

local Red Cross branch.

Remember to be reasonable and well mannered. Keep your contacts

updated and show them how greatly your activity has progressed!

Creating strong relationships and networks can be a great aid for your

future activities. Calendar of Important Dates (2009-2010).

5.4 EVENT PLANNING SHEET

For a complete Four Step Model for a successful event and a sample

timeline, see the appendix.

SECTION III:

MAINTAIN

PLANNING

PLANNING

III:

AINTAINING YOUR GROUP

NING YOUR F IRST YEAR

NING FOR SUCCESSIONS

43

ROUP

44

PLANNING YOUR FIRST YEAR SECTION OVERVIEW

CALENDAR - RED CROSS SPECIAL DATES

SUCCESSFUL PAST ACTIVITIES

REGULAR MEETINGS WITH ACTION ITEMS

CALENDAR - RED CROSS SPECIAL DATES

Once you have successfully started your Youth Action Group and

planned your first successful event, it is time to plan for the rest of the

first year. This is a crucial step to maintain the level of interest

within your group.

Encourage your members to participate in events. Allow them to take

part in planning for events and have open discussion meetings about

upcoming events. Also take suggestions from general members

because their suggestion is important.

Every Youth Action Group should strive to produce four or more

quality projects each year based on its level of development. A new

Youth Action Group should start off with one small activity in the

beginning and gradually increase its involvement as the group

expands.

To assist your planning, a calendar of important dates is included on

the next page.

45

9 International Day of the

Worlds Indigenous People

12 International Youth Day

AUGUST 09

S M T W Th F S

1

2 3 4 5 6 7 8

9 10 11 12 13 14 15

16 17 18 19 20 21 22

23 24 25 26 27 28 29

30 31

SEPTEMBER 09

S M T W Th F S

1 2 3 4 5

6 7 8 9 10 11 12

13 14 15 16 17 18 19

20 21 22 23 24 25 26

27 28 29 30

7 Labor Day

8 International Literacy Day

20 International Day of Peace

This month is disarmament month

5 World Teachers Day

12 Columbus Day

16 World Food Day


Eradication of Poverty

24 United Nations Day

31 Halloween

OCTOBER 09

S M T W Th F S

1 2 3

4 5 6 7 8 9 10

11 12 13 14 15 16 17

18 19 20 21 22 23 24

25 26 27 28 29 30 31

NOVEMBER 09

S M T W Th F S

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

8 9 10 11 12 13 14

15 16 17 18 19 20 21

22 23 24 25 26 27 28

29 30

1 Daylight Savings Time ends

11 Remembrance Day

16 International Day of

Tolerance

20 Universal Childrens Day

26-27 Thanksgiving Break

1 Worlds AIDS Day


Disabled Person

5 International Volunteers Day

for Economic and Social

Development

10 Human Rights Day


Biological Diversity

21-25 Winter Break

DECEMBER 09

S M T W Th F S

1 2 3 4 5

6 7 8 9 10 11 12

13 14 15 16 17 18 19

20 21 22 23 24 25 26

27 28 29 30 31

JANUARY 10

S M T W Th F S

1 2

3 4 5 6 7 8 9

10 11 12 13 14 15 16

17 18 19 20 21 22 23

24 25 26 27 28 29 30

31

1 New Years Day

18 M.L. King Jr. Day

1-7 Development week

8 Race Relations Day

14 Valentines Day

15 Presidents Day

FEBRUARY 10

S M T W Th F S

1 2 3 4 5 6

7 8 9 10 11 12 13

14 15 16 17 18 19 20

21 22 23 24 25 26 27

28

MARCH 10

S M T W Th F S

1 2 3 4 5 6

7 8 9 10 11 12 13

14 15 16 17 18 19 20

21 22 23 24 25 26 27

28 29 30 31

This month is Red Cross Month

8 International Womens Day

14 Daylight Savings Time

begins

21 International Day for

Elimination of Racial

Discrimination

22 World Water Day

This month is Earth Month

7 World Health Day

12-16 Spring Break

21 Global Youth Service Day

22 Earth Day

APRIL 10

S M T W Th F S

1 2 3

4 5 6 7 8 9 10

11 12 13 14 15 16 17

18 19 20 21 22 23 24

25 26 27 28 29 30

MAY 10

S M T W Th F S

1

2 3 4 5 6 7 8

9 10 11 12 13 14 15

16 17 18 19 20 21 22

23 24 25 26 27 28 29

30 31

3 World Press Freedom Day

8 World Red Cross Day


Families

31 Memorial Day

46

Plan ahead of the activities you would like to include in your first year.

There is a template calendar for you in the appendix with a few

suggestions, but put your own ideas in as well!

SUCCESSFUL PAST ACTIVITIES

FUNDRAISING IDEAS

There are a couple of ways through which a Youth Action Group can

raise money, aside from participating in an already developed

fundraiser. Here are some previous fundraisers successfully

completed by other Youth Action Groups.

Remember to have a cause in mind!

SMALL FUNDRAISERS AND/OR ACTIVITIES:

Multicultural

Food Fest

o Have your Group cook traditional foods from all

around the world. Serve these at a dinner (or

after school) for a small charge

o Offer information about the Red Cross and its

work in the different countries being represented.

o Flags can be used as decoration.

o This also helps bring about appreciation for

diversity.

1-7 Environment and Water

Safety Week

5 World Environment Day

20 World Refugee Day

21 First Nations Day (CAN)

JUNE 10

S M T W Th F S

1 2 3 4 5

6 7 8 9 10 11 12

13 14 15 16 17 18 19

20 21 22 23 24 25 26

27 28 29 30

JULY 10

S M T W Th F S

1 2 3

4 5 6 7 8 9 10

11 12 13 14 15 16 17

18 19 20 21 22 23 24

25 26 27 28 29 30 31

1 Canada Day

5 Independence Day

(Observed)

11 World Population Day

47

Jelly Bean

Count

o Fill a jar with jelly beans or another small candy

and have people pay to guess how many candies

there are in the jar.

o Whoevers guess is the closest wins the candies.

Arts and

Crafts sale

o Make crafts and advertise your sale well.

o Some ideas for crafts: knitted items, candles, or

paintings. You can ask local artisans for donations

as well.

LARGE FUNDRAISERS AND/OR ACTIVITIES:

Landmine

Awareness

Campaign

o Cut yellow Bristol boards to represent actual

landmines and tape them to the ground in various

places in the school.

o Have one or two volunteers watch each piece of

Bristol board and tally up how many students

stepped on each.

o Do not let the student body know that the Bristol

boards are mimicking landmines, or they will avoid

them.

o Announce at the end of the week how many

students would have died if the Bristol boards were

actual landmines.

Exam

Grams (or

just candy

grams)

o Sell little cards with a students custom message

(e.g. Good Luck on Exams!).

o Attach little stationary items such as small erasers or

gel pens to get into the exam mood!

o Optional: add some little candies such as Smarties

and have custom cards that say Smarties make you

smart! ;)

o Also include a Red Cross pin or other small items.

o Have brochures/posters at the booth.

REGULAR

The number of times that the group meets will vary from group to

group; however, they

meeting has a different purpose and below is a chart outlining the

steps to take to prepare for a meet

MEETING

Action Items

Take minutes

Keep it interesting

EGULAR MEETINGS WITH ACTION ITEMS


group; however, they must meet at least once per month.


steps to take to prepare for a meeting.

EETING GUIDELINES

Have a purpose and specific action items (TODO list) for the meeting

Meetings flow best with an agenda and a moderator (possibly the chair/president of the group)

Action Items

Summarize the key points (what was said by whom, who is assigned to what, etc.)

Distribute minutes to members via email for approval.

Take minutes

Meeting can be for planning, implementing or evaluating new ideas

Mix and match work with social events and training

Contact the branch for training opportunities for youth

Keep it interesting

48


once per month. Each


Have a purpose and specific action items (TODO list) for the meeting

Meetings flow best with an agenda and a moderator (possibly the chair/president of the group)

Summarize the key points (what was said by whom, who is assigned to

Distribute minutes to members via

Meeting can be for planning, implementing or evaluating new

Mix and match work with social

Contact the branch for training

49

PLANNING FOR SUCCESSION SECTION OVERVIEW

WHY IS IT SO IMPORTANT TO PLAN FOR SUCCESSIONS?

GET TEACHER ADVISOR

GET NEW EXECUTIVES

GET NEW MEMBERS

WHY IS IT SO IMPORTANT TO PLAN FOR SUCCESSIONS?

Every year, members, executives, or teacher advisors may leave the

Youth Action Group due to graduation or other reasons. So it is

important that the Youth Action Group still continues on after a

teacher advisor or a graduating executive leaves. Planning for

successions can help ease the transition and help prepare a new

executive team. After all, you have spent so much time to get the

group started. It would be a waste to abandon the group completely.

GET TEACHER ADVISOR

For getting a new teacher advisor, please refer back to step 2.1.

If your teacher advisor will be the same person, you do not necessarily

have to go through the process of discussing the purpose of the Group.

However, you should still make sure he or she knows his/her

responsibilities and you should discuss the new agenda for the

following year with him or her.

50

GET NEW EXECUTIVES

The new executives should be existing members of the current Youth

Action Group so that they are familiar with how the group is run.

These interested members should hand in a resume including their

experience with the group and their commitment for the next year,

along with the application form.

Please see Step 4 for more details on selecting executives.

GET NEW MEMBERS

There are many ways to recruit new members including the word of

mouth, booths, and announcements.

The easiest and sometimes most effective way to recruit new

members is through existing members. Have your members spread

the word about the Youth Action Group and invite them to join. People

are more likely to join when they know their friends are in the group.

You can also recruit new members by setting booths at special events,

especially events for new students such as Grade 8 Orientations. Have

posters, brochures and an enthusiastic member at the booth to invite

the students to look around. Encourage the students to sign up and

then send them emails for more information and updates.

Last but not least, have inviting announcements at your school to

announce your Group. Remember the three Cs : Catchy, Concise, and

Convincing.

*Note: See the year-end Planning Calendar for months that should be

allotted to planning for successions.

SECTION IV:

GOING TO OVERVIEW OF

HOW TO

:

OING TO UNIVERSITY?VERVIEW OF UNIVERSITY GROUPS

O JOIN

51

?

52

OVERVIEW OF UNIVERSITY GROUPS

A list of university groups in Ontario and some sample activities can

be found below.

CURRENT UNIVERSITY GROUPS IN ONTARIO

University of Toronto, St. George (Downtown)

University of Toronto, Scarborough

University of Toronto, Mississauga (in the forming stage)

York University

McMaster University

University of Western Ontario

Huron University College

SOME SAMPLE ACTIVITIES

University Activities

University of

Toronto, Downtown

Children affected by war, public awareness/

fundraising, video screening, lecture series,

and art exhibition

York University Public awareness, information distribution, RC

101 orientation for new members, speaker

series on IHL and situation in Darfur and

Fundraising.

McMaster

University

Public awareness/fundraising with focus on

Global Citizenship conference.

University of

Western Ontario

Fundraising, promotion of humanitarian

issues, volunteering in the community at a

variety of locations (soup kitchens, childrens

museum). Volunteer with the local RC branch.

Speaker series and campus-wide campaigns.

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Red Cross Youth Action Group presents:

High School Meeting with University Groups

Learn how to start your own Red Cross Youth Action Group!

Representatives from Red Cross university groups will be

present

Current high school Red Cross YAGs must attend this

mandatory meeting

All those interested in joining Red Cross YAG are welcome!

Date: __________________

Time: __________________

Location: _______________

54

HOW TO JOIN

Red Cross Youth Action Groups play an important part in furthering


youth on important domestic and international humanitarian issues.

To join a university group,

1. Attend the high school meeting with university groups

2. Read the membership requirements

3. Contact the chair and join the recruitment events

MEMBERSHIP REQUIREMENTS

The membership requirements for some of the university groups are

provided in the table below.

University Requirements

University

of

Toronto,

Downtown

Be involved in at least one event (fundraising, public

awareness) throughout the year.

York

University

General members should attend at least one event

throughout the year. Executives are elected from the

general membership.

McMaster

University

Attend events and be actively involved in a clubs life

University

of Western

Ontario

Paying $10 to cover insurance and club costs. Majority

of the money is donated to the RC. Members must

attend an inaugural meeting to familiarize themselves

with the principles and activities of the RC.

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CONTACT THE UNIVERSITY GROUPS

Interested high school Youth Action Group members are encouraged

to attend the annual recruitment events held at each university. To

find out more, contact the individual group and go to their website.

Here is the contact information for several groups in Ontario.

1. University of Toronto, St. George (Downtown)

Website: http://redcross.sa.utoronto.ca/

(or go to https://ulife.utoronto.ca/ and search for Red Cross

Youth Group)

E-mail: [email protected]

(or [email protected] for Scarborough campus)

2. York University

Website: http://www.yorku.ca/redcross/

E-mail: [email protected]

56

APPENDIX MEMBER SIGN UP

Name (First and Last): ____________________________________

Grade: ______ Homeroom: __________

E-mail Address: __________________________________

How did you find out about this Youth Action Group?

Why do you want to be part of a Red Cross Youth Action Group?

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

MEMBER SIGN UP

Name (First and Last): ____________________________________

Grade: ______ Homeroom: __________

E-mail Address: __________________________________

How did you find out about this Youth Action Group?

Why do you want to be part of a Red Cross Youth Action Group?

57

YEAR-END REPORTING FORM

Canadian Red Cross

Croix-Rouge Canadienne

Region of York Branch

Youth Action Group

Year End Report 2009-2010

School Name:

School Address:

School Phone Number:

Executive Members

1. President: Email:

2. Vice President:

3. Treasurer:

4. Secretary:

5. Others:

Total Number of Members:

Name of Teacher Advisor: Email:

Report of Accomplishments

Describe each activity with the date, number of participating members, size of

audience, and amount fundraised (if applicable) under activity description

Event:

Description:

58

Event:

Description:

Event:

Description:

Event:

Description:

Other Comments:

Completed and Submitted by: Contact Info:

59

YEAR PLANNING CALENDAR (EXAMPLE)

SEPTEMBER:

FIND A TEACHER ADVISOR

PLAN YOUR FIRST MEETING

RECRUIT MEMBERS!

OCTOBER:

SUDAN WEEK OF ACTION

NOVEMBER:

AFGHANISTAN AWARENESS

DECEMBER:

HAVE A FOOD/TOY DRIVE!

60

MAY: JUNE:

HAVE A YEAR-END PARTY!

JANUARY:

EXAMS!

FEBRUARY:

SUCCESSION PLANNING

EXECUTIVE APPLICATIONS HANDED OUT

MARCH:

RED CROSS MONTH

EXECUTIVE APPLICATIONS DUE

APRIL:

EXECUTIVE INTERVIEWS

RED CROSS MEETING FOR NEW EXECUTIVES

SAMPLE EVENT T IMELINE

Write thank you notes to volunteers and others, including businesses, that may have donated supplies or services

Any last minute details that have been forgotten

Confirm agenda

Send out promotional materials to target

audiencePromote! Promote!

Develop a tentative agenda

Develop a list of your goals and objectives and possible events that may help attain these.

Preliminary planning

Develop your Project Plan!

Establish any partnerships with other groups or

organizations

Make a list of businesses for

donation of supplies or

services

IMELINE

Week After the Event

Write thank you notes to volunteers and others, including businesses, that may have donated supplies or services

Follow-up with participants to get feed-back and to continue participant

engagement

Write up recommendations for future

Week of Event

The Event

1 Week Before

Any last minute details that have been forgotten Continue promotion and remind any media contacts

2 Weeks Before

Confirm agenda Continue Promotion

4 Weeks Before

Develop a tentative Purchase necessary materials 3 weeks

before

Assign volunteer tasks and roles for event-

dayContinue promotion


Make a list of businesses for

donation of supplies or

services

Approach businesses for

donations

Prepare promotional

materials

Recruit volunteers that will be required

61

Write up recommendations for future events

Continue promotion and remind any media contacts

Continue Promotion

Continue promotion

Contact media to invite them to the event, or write an

article for publication


Look for, and book, a venue for the event

Book any other services or

supplies that you will need.

THE FOUR STEP MODEL FOR

YOUTH TAP)

Goal setting involves looking at goals and objectives for your group. Once you have determined your group membership, it is important to describe what your group hopes to accomplish during the coming year.

Goal setting is an activity that should take place soon after your group is formed. It should involve all committee members since achieving these goals will occupy each volunteers time.

Goals: Goals are broad statements describing overall purpose, indicating your intentions and aims. Here are two examples:

a. To increase awareness at your school about global issues.

b. To help people who have been injured by landmines.

Objectives: Objectives are more specific statements of desired results, which identify the people, actions and conditions needed to achieve your goals. Here are the objectives, which go with the above goals:

a. To provide students with educational information about how children are affected by war.

b. To raise $2,000 for the Canadian Red Cross Landmine Survivors Fund.

Goal Setting

Here is a brief overview of how to plan a group project:

1. After setting the goals and objectives of your event, decide which type of project your group will do: fundraising, awareness, education, or fun activities for your group or school.

2. Have a large group brainstorming session to generate ideas for projects.

Remember these basic rules for brainstorming:

List every ideaeven weird, way

Put ideas down the way the person said it: dont edit.

Do not discuss ideas, dont ask questions; dont ask people to clarify.

Do not judgeno good or bad, no red or green, just ideas.

Its OK to repeat because people dont usually repeat exactly.

3. Once you have several ideas, choose one that your group will focus on. You maywant to have a vote to decide, or use group consensus.

4. Plan the activity:

Decide when the activity will take place.

What resources will you need? Ex. money, people, educational supplies (videos), etc.

Make up a budgetHow much money will you need to start? How much will

you make (if your activity is a fundraiser)?

Make a time-line of approximately 6 weeks leading up to the activitywill do what and when.

Decide on a promotional strategy.

Project Planning

Once you have planned out your project, go to work! Remember to publicize, publicize, publicize! Make sure that when the day of the activity arrives everyone knows what his or her job is.

Implementation

It is very important to do an evaluation of your activity when its all over. You may want to have a group meeting to discuss such things as:

Did the activity to as planned? Why or why not?

How much money was raised? (if you did a fundraiser)

Would this activity be worthwhile to do again in the future?

Dont forget to thank all of the people who helped make the activity a success! You can send out

thank you cards or letters to people outside of the group who helped and/or made donations.

Evaluation and Follow-Up

ODEL FOR EVENTS (CREDITS TO CANADIAN

Goal setting involves looking at goals and objectives for your group. Once you have determi

youth group handbook - steps to success

Documents

red cross workshop

canadian red cross staff

geneva conventions red

red crystal emblems

successful youth action

youth action group mandate

youth action groups

youth volunteers