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Recipe For a Great Worm Workshop! |
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Written by Administrator
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Sunday, 11 September 2005 |
by S. Zorba Frankel, from our issue #31
After just a few months with your first worm bin, I suspect you’re
already considered something of a local worm “expert” (or, perhaps, an
“oddball”, depending on your community). Worm composting is like that —
not quite popular enough yet, so that most people are still surprised
when you tell them you’ve got a box of redworms in your utility room.
Since you’re already looked at like a professor, why not go and teach?
Maybe you haven’t taught a workshop before, and maybe you feel you
hardly know anything yet, but I suspect you know the basics pretty
well. Whether you have a bin that’s in “perfect” shape, or one that’s
had troubles (which you’ve solved), you have valuable skills to share.
If you need any further encouragement to get out and teach, then let me
tell you what fun it is. Sharing knowledge just feels good, and is a
wonderful way to reflect back to you just how much you’ve grown in your
abilities and strengths. Teaching worms feels all the better because
you’re doing good for the planet.
Now, repeat after me: “I promise to teach a worm composting workshop
this year.” Great! Now that you’ve taken on the challenge, I’ll walk
you through the steps that will help build a successful workshop.
Where & When
Several months before you intend to hold the workshop, arrange to rent
or use a space. Specify how many chairs, tables, tents, etc. you’ll
need, and arrange to use equipment you won’t bring with you, like a
TV/VCR, a projector, and so on. Walk through the room, and note the
location of the projection screen, electrical outlets, etc. Draw a map
to use in planning your set-up.
Who and What
Decide on the scope of your workshop. Will this be small group that you
lead in modifying plastic tubs during a two-hour workshop, or do you
want to lead a several-hour training for some of the most avid
gardeners? In how much depth will you discuss the habitats, biology and
physiology of earthworms and about the other critters in the worm bin
ecosystem? Will you discuss mid- and large-scale operations, and cover
the basics of starting a business? There are many choices here. Do what
you can do well, and get help if you need it.
Donations
If a non-profit organization is holding the workshop, you’ll likely
find some businesses and organizations to donate materials (businesses)
and money (the organizations) to further your goals. Don’t be shy! Just
go and ask! Remember to mention all the donators’ names on the workshop
flyer and on a signboard.
Come One, Come All!
Once you know the details, it’s time to start putting the word out. Get creative here, and get help crafting the ads:
Got Worms? We can help! Worm composting bins are the way to inner
peace and harmony. We’re going to hold a workshop right here in
Compostown, on May 25th at...
(Adjust your own wording to the sort of folks you’re targeting to
attend, of course.) Advertise in local newspapers and community
bulletins, on radio stations, through county extension offices and
school newsletters. Include the costs and the kinds of activities they
can expect. Remember to mention if a worm bin is included.
Who’s Coming?
If the workshop has a limited attendance, and you’ll be signing people
up in advance, then get your printed information ready early! Those
that send in registration should receive a eye-catching card or
brochure to put up on the fridge as a reminder (and as a receipt).
Start The Presses!
Don’t expect workshop attendees to remember everything you say. A good
workshop gives new vermicomposters something to chew on, (more
precisely, something for their worms to chew on, later on). A couple
months before showtime, prepare your written materials. Decide whether
to offer your own “worm guide”, a copy of Worm Digest or perhaps even a
book, as part of the workshop. Also start to create signs, including
your business’ banner, workshop announcements and banner, schedules and
a basic how-to poster. Poster-size materials will greatly enhance any
presentation. An easel and pad can be very helpful. Write your pages in
advance, then just flip, flip, flip!
Get Some Elves!
You’ll enjoy yourself much more if you have plenty of enthusiastic
help! I always visit a local high school’s environmental sciences
program and talk excitedly about the upcoming workshop, and usually get
a half dozen of great helpers, who also get community service credit
for their time.
Sales
If you’re going to sell products at the workshop, start working on your
inventory early. You’re going to need to give the suppliers enough lead
time to create and/or deliver those mugs, bins and three-ring binders.
The Check-off List
As the workshop date gets closer, start gathering everything you need. Here’s a list of things to remember:
- remind volunteers of their shifts
- look over your printed materials (forgotten to create anything?)
- create signup sheet for more info
- display items and products for sale
- paints, brushes, paint, containers,
smocks, water jugs, etc.
- banners, easels, tape, twine
- worms and demonstration bins
- pens, receipt book, cash and change
Workshop Day
Get there early, get set up and get your volunteers organized! Your excellent preparation will pay off in an enjoyable workshop!
S. Zorba Frankel, besides editing Worm Digest, leads a club whose
members suffer from shyness, but who have vowed, despite their fears,
to lead worm workshops anyway.
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Last Updated ( Sunday, 02 October 2005 )
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