Developing partnerships is certainly not a new topic of discussion among gyms, rec centers or nonprofits. I assume you already have some great contacts and relationships in place such as local schools, government engagement and health care facilities. So, before we jump into the partnerships you maybe haven’t thought of, I feel the obligation to ensure you know two or three extremely well developed and nurtured partnerships will always produce more results than 30 weak contacts. If you go down the path of partnership, be sure you have a strong plan in place to build the relationship.
Now lets take a look at some creative ideas:
1. Work with Restaurants and Food Vendors to Promote Healthy Eating
Remember, one of the toughest parts of staying healthy for the average person is being consistent in eating healthy. Most restaurants and food vendors have “skinny menu” options, heart healthy sections and many vendors I’ve worked with have even been open to creating new options specific to our business such as a “Don’t Rec Your Diet” protein shake.
Action Steps:
- Host nutrition workshops or cooking demonstrations in collaboration with local meal prep companies and dietitians.
- Negotiate discounts on healthy meal options at partnering restaurants for members of the recreational center.
- Develop a “Fuel Your Workout” program where meal-prep companies can provide options specific to before and after workout prep and recovery.
- Encourage food vendors to set up booths at community events hosted by the recreational center.
2. Connect with Local Social Groups or Community Organizations
Nonprofits and community organizations are always looking for places to host fundraisers, grassroots marketing opportunities and exposure to new audiences. A fantastic win/win scenario can be finding ways to allow these groups to take part in your activities, allowing you to leverage additional exposure for your community events.
Action Steps:
- Reach out to local nonprofits to offer space for charity events, workshops or tabling during your community events.
- Explore opportunities to offer specialized programming such as those with disabilities or even regular programming at specific times exclusive for specific community groups as team building activities.
3. Establish Partnerships with Micro-Influencers
Before you immediately skim over this point, hear me out: I’m not referring to the term influencer in how it’s used online today, but more in the sense of who has credibility in your community? Your local bank president, the mom who is the head of the parent teacher association at your local school, the pastor of your local church and so on. These local influencers can be a massive help in connecting you to the community.
Action Steps:
- Identify those who are already members of your center and have coffee to get to know them.
- Reach out with intent to serve. How could you help this influencer with their goals?
- Ask for advice, input for blog posts, or even opportunities to be a part of staff meetings, trainings where appropriate and community events as a special guest.
4. Organize Seasonal and Themed Events with Partners
Partnering can be easy cross-promotion during special times of the year to develop leverage for your partners while developing a win for your center. Figuring out what goals your partner organization has will be key to winning in this category.
Action Steps:
- Develop a prayer day hosted by your local church close to Easter where invite cards to Easter services are given out throughout the day.
- Create a donation program to provide school supplies for underprivileged kids at local schools during back to school time.
- Host a food drive with your local food bank around Thanksgiving. Encourage employees to volunteer when they’re available to give out at the food bank.
Final Thoughts
Building partnerships requires a commitment to developing friendships with your local community. Committing to treating each partnership as a relationship is key here.
Always remember your center provides your community a place to help everyone who walks through your doors. You provide an opportunity for them to live a more full life, and partnerships can make it that much more fun and meaningful.
