Use social media.

We used social media to its maximum potential. Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube and our website. To grow your group, follow many people and they will follow you back. Join other Facebook groups in your city and spread your message. Boost your posts using ads to reach non-followers.

Take it outside.

Although we used social media extensively, it’s important to reach people out on the street too. We distributed 1600 lawn signs to reach people not on social media. We also held rallies on the streets and outside city hall.

Fundraise.

We fundraised to be able to buy lawn signs and to advertise on Facebook, Instagram, radio, and in newspapers. Team up with Small Change Fund and you may be able to offer charitable receipts for donation.

Find a Councillor who will champion the cause.

We found a few Councillors who would present motions at Council to achieve our goals. This was essential!

Find support from other groups.

We joined forces with Environmental Defence, Environment Hamilton, Wellington Water Watchers, Hamilton 350, GASP4Change, Action13, Hamilton Acorn & Small Change Fund to reach our goals. Learn from other groups as you grow.

Comply with Provincial Policies.

To reach our goals of accommodating population growth for the next 30 years, we proposed changing zoning rules to enable more ground-related houses to be built. Thousands of homes are slated to be rebuilt over the next 30 years. By allowing semis to be built and not just single-family homes, we can introduce more affordable homes in neighbourhoods where people want to live.