)
)
)
)
)
How are Scout leaders using Freewebs?
Keeps our troop updated
"By having the Freewebs site we are able to keep our troop updated on all the latest news and information from the Leaders and helpers. It also allows other members of the Chelmsford District to find out what our troop is about, what we do and what we have already done."
Recruitment
"It also is great for advertising our troop ... It’s a great recruitment tool."
"It helps others find out about our troop who might be moving to the area."
Get forms and documents immediately
"It helps my troop of Girl Scouts and Parents stay updated regarding upcoming events and meetings. It allows parents and Girl Scouts to get forms and/or documents immediately, rather than having to wait to see me in person to get it. The girls love to share the website with friends and family especially when we add new photos from an event."
Resource for troop members
"Our site enables us to keep up to date with events and other announcements... In addition, the site acts as a resource for the troop members. They are able to look up merit badge information, patrol and leadership information, etc.."
Tips for building your scout troop website
Sketch it out
"Work out your site the old fashioned way with pen and paper. Draw the links and dot point the information you want to give in the paragraphs or pages. Then have a look how to link that information in real time working with the pages and paragraphs. Don’t be afraid of mistakes and having to go back a couple of steps."
Group promotion
"One of the most important things you need to remember when making a site for your group is Group promotion. You want people to know who you are so make sure you put the group name on most pages. We have a lot of photos on our pages so people know we do a lot during the terms and make the scouts very happy, so photos of happy smiling children is always a positive. A means of contact is very important, such as an email address so people can get in contact with you."
Clutter free
"Keep the pages clutter free. In other words, don't add so many "effects" which can distract from the page content. Make sure you keep your site updated and post the date that your site was last updated on your home page. Make sure the pages on your site specifically pertain to the what the title page states."
Keep it simple
"Don't put too much content on any one page. Many scouts are still on dial up. Keep It Short and Simple. Fancy pictures and graphics may look great, but they make it hard for some people to get they information needed."
"The less information you have to up date the better off you are. Try to keep the fluid section close to each other so they are easily accessed. I am now teaching the Cub Leader to up date his section of the site to make it easier for me. Once that is done, I will move onto a different section Leader."
Give scouts reason to check site regularly
"Have a page that has games and other widgets that will encourage scouts to continue to check the site. On the Home Page, put upcoming events and important information, as sometimes scouts do not navigate around the full site, and just check the home page. Also use guest book or the live chat feature that Freewebs offers to allow scouts to ask questions and get responses. Keep the site up-to-date."
Other Advice
Update regularly
"Building a website takes a lot of time and effort so only do one if you now you can keep it updated regularly. Make it attractive but modest and also make sure that you do not include any names without the written permission of each individual."
Get permission
"Always get permission from parents before putting photos of their kids on the site. I do this in writing. Never, never use a child's last name on the website. Make sure you proof read your webpage content over and over. Have a friend proof the content for errors. Periodically test your site to make sure all the links work properly. Make sure you are not violating any copyright laws by copying other sites for their content, adding artwork that is copy written, etc. When in doubt, GET PERMISSION!"
