Where to Look for Learners
While trying to reach new learners can feel intimidating, it can be a lot easier than many people make it. Most CALP staff will agree that when you have programs that properly serve your community needs, word of mouth takes over and marketing becomes much easier. This section is all about quick strategies and tools you can use to bring new learners to your CALP. To start off, here are some thoughts on attracting new learners, from experienced CALP staff.
The best place to start finding new learners is to ask your current learners:
- How did they find out about you?
- Where else do they network or spend time?
- What other services do they use?
Introducing yourself, as recommended in the referral section, provides great results! Make sure to leave behind some information on what your CALP has to offer. Here are some other ideas of where to look to find new learners in your community:
- Library
- Town Office
- Pharmacy
- Doctors' Office
- Schools
- Real Estate Agent
- Welcome Wagon
- Moms and Tots groups
- After School Programs
- Community Pages on Facebook
- Local playgrounds
- Churches
- Businesses
- Food Bank
- Local shelter (women's, homeless)
- Alberta Works office/Service Alberta
- New adult learners can often be found in unlikely places or reached in unconventional ways. Check out these cool little bar coasters created by Taber & District Community Adult Learning Association. They dropped off a stack of these at the local bar, making it easy for prospective learners to contact them and learn more about their GED and youth employment programs.
