5 Steps to Create a Next-Level Chapter Newsletter
The chapter newsletter is a vital communication tool that many FFA members and their families rely on. Chapters from around the country are dedicated to maintaining an informative newsletter for their community.
Whether you are looking to improve or begin a chapter newsletter, it can be hard to know where to start. Stacy Simmer, senior graphic designer for the National FFA Organization, has some tips for those chapters looking for guidance on creating a newsletter that stands out from the rest.
1. Photos are key.
Simmer shares that one of the most important components of a newsletter is the photos. “Photos of our members learning and growing are our most powerful visual tools. You do not have to manufacture a great story; you just have to find it, capture it and communicate it,” Simmer says. For the best impact, focus on photos that only have a handful of people in them. Although group photos can be great, they are hard to digest, because faces are too small to see clearly and they typically don’t showcase the story that is being told. Action shots of small groups or individuals have a greater storytelling impact.
2. Keep it simple.
“Keep your content simple and direct. People are busy and bombarded daily by marketing content. Your best strategy is to communicate your message clearly and quickly,” Simmer says. It’s better to have your readers wishing for more than overwhelming them with too much.
3. Focus on content.
“A strong newsletter balances emotional, engaging content with timely announcements,” Simmer says. Newsletters should serve as both a tool for vital communication and a way to share stories about members and their achievements. Unfortunately, there isn’t room to share every story from the chapter. Pick and choose which stories will be the most helpful and impactful to readers.
4. Use National FFA resources.
For design choices, visit the FFA Branding webpage for free access to official colors, emblems, fonts and more. Remember, you should never alter the official FFA emblem. A prominent FFA emblem on your newsletter is always recommended. To learn more about using the FFA brand, check out the video below.
5. Choose the right format for you.
Digital or print? “Digital newsletters are highly cost-effective to produce, but they can easily be ignored or deleted with a single click. A mailed newsletter puts a tangible message directly into the hands of your audience, though the printing and postage costs can quickly add up,” Simmer says. Consider what your readers will value more, what your chapter can afford and what will make more meaningful connections.
Need more inspiration? The National FFA Organization publishes several regular newsletters you can subscribe to. This is a great way to learn more about what’s happening in FFA and find inspiration for your own chapter newsletter!
