A big area of focus this time of year is foliage season hiking, but fall trail maintenance is just as important! Many of you are currently planning for your fall work days and recruiting volunteers to join.
If you’re looking for some ways to reach more potential volunteers, try looking beyond your standard newsletter and social media channels to get the word out. These channels have an existing audience that is likely already familiar with your section’s work. To reach new folks, consider local community forums, like Front Porch Forum and Facebook groups or pages. These are great places to engage hikers who may not otherwise know about GMC sections.
Here’s an example of what HQ might post to promote a work day. Feel free to use this as a template!
After another busy summer and fall of hiking, give the trails some much needed TLC by joining the Green Mountain Club’s X Section for a fall work day. Learn about routine trail maintenance, help prepare the trails for winter, and enjoy a fall day outdoors.
Join the X Section for a day of fall trail work on [date] near [location]. [Insert other details, like what to bring and who to RSVP to].
And make sure your work day is on the GMC google calendar so HQ can also share the dates and help promote your outings!
How to find local forums for your community (you may already be a part of these!)

Front Porch Forum: Sign Up with your home address to get access to a message board for your community

Facebook: Search your town or nearby town’s name in the search bar on the upper left (if using a desktop/laptop). Search results will include groups; look for general town groups or event groups. To join, you will likely have to answer some questions to show you are not a bot. Be sure to follow group rules (i.e. check to see if they allow event postings).

Local papers’ websites may have a page to submit community events, like the Addison Independent: https://www.addisonindependent.com/submit-a-calendar-item/
2024