Local Marketing Guide: Grow registrations in your community

Why it matters

For most extracurricular providers, the best marketing doesn't happen online. It happens in your own community.

People are far more likely to register when they hear about your organization from a school, another parent, or a trusted local organization. The best part? These ideas are simple, affordable, and can have a big impact on registrations.

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Partner with local organizations

One recommendation from a trusted organization can be more valuable than dozens of social media posts. Think about the places families already visit, such as:

• Local schools
• Libraries
• Community centers
• Churches
• Daycares and preschools
• Children's museums

Reach out and ask if they can:

• Include your programs in their newsletter.
• Share your registration link with their community.
• Display a flyer on a bulletin board.

When reaching out, don't just explain what your organization does. Explain how your programs benefit the people they serve and why they align with their mission.

Don't overlook other extracurricular providers, either. Organizations that complement your programs (rather than compete with them) can become valuable referral partners. 

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Create flyers with QR codes

Printed flyers still work, especially when they make it easy for families to register immediately. Include:

• Program name
• Ages
• Dates
• Location
• A short description
• A QR code linking directly to your Guildara registration page

Display your flyers where your audience already spends time, such as schools, libraries, recreation centers, coffee shops, and other local businesses. 

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Save time with Canva

To save time, start with one of our Canva templates and customize it with your own branding program details and links.

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Meet families where they already are

Community events are a great opportunity to introduce your organization to people who may never have heard of you. Look for opportunities such as:

• Community festivals
• Farmers markets
• School open houses
• Back-to-school nights
• Local fairs

Bring flyers, business cards, and a QR code linking directly to your Guildara registration page so interested families can register immediately or save the information for later.

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Reach out to local media

Local newspapers, radio stations, and community newsletters are always looking for stories and events that are relevant to families. Consider sharing with them your registration announcements, summer camp programs and scholarship opportunities.

Even a short mention can introduce your organization to hundreds of local families who may not have discovered you otherwise.

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