MEMBER TOOLKIT
PURPOSE. NACURH Residence Hall Month celebrates the many accomplishments, experiences, and educational opportunities that happen within the residence halls. It is the time when students, faculty, staff, and administration show their appreciation and recognition of the residence halls for its many contributions to the on- and off-campus communities. This month is always a special event for NACURH, Inc. as we represent the interest of residence life student organizations internationally and recognize those individuals who go above and beyond the call of duty to ensure the ultimate residence life experience.
FOCUS AREAS. NRHM is dedicated to embracing the residential experience through four observed weeks in February that include the following focus areas: Service | February 1-7 Advocacy | February 8-14 Recognition | February 15-21 Programming | February 22-28 We believe NRHM is a unique opportunity that brings together our membership in celebration of the residence life experience.
CELEBRATING NRHM. While NACURH and it’s regional affiliates will be celebrating NRHM, we encourage member institutions to incorporate NRHM into the work of your RHA and/or NRHH Chapter so to promote the importance of the residence life experience on every level of NACURH, Inc. Here are some suggestions for celebrating NRHM on your campuses!
ENGAGE. NACURH, Inc. has developed cover photos and other digital resources that will be shared across our social media accounts throughout the month of February. One way member institutions can get involved is by using these images and resources on your own social media accounts. To access these resources, head on over to nacurh.org/nrhm. Use #NRHM16 to join the conversation.
COLLABORATE. We encourage RHAs and NRHH chapters to work together to create programming that highlights the focus areas of NRHM. Below you will find a list of programs that members have found to be successful in engaging residents in NRHM.
SERVICE. • • • • •
Volunteer at your local food bank Show documentaries that inspire service Hold a food/book/clothing/stuffed animal drive Work with a local non-profit on a project Plan a Day of Service
ADVOCACY. • • • • •
Lobby at the state capital Hold an open forum for facilities, dining services, housing, etc. Erect a free speech wall Table in a residence hall to gather resident feedback on their experiences Collaborate with student government and other organizations
RECOGNITION. • • • • •
Host an OTM Writing Party Host a recognition tabling event with recognition supplies for residents to use Send out recognition postcards Host a recognition banquet Get treats for RAs on campus
PROGRAMMING. • • • • • • • •
Residence Hall Olympics Crafting lessons Campus-wide pillow fight Tie-dye day Pet rocks event Web video night Talent show Movie night
While these are just some suggestions, we encourage members to discuss what you want NRHM to look like on your campuses. Spend some time brainstorming ideas at your next Executive Board meeting!
EDUCATE. NRHM is an incredible opportunity to not only celebrate the importance of the residence life experience, but to onboard residents and members of your residential organizations to educate them about NACURH Inc, NRHH, and your regional affiliate. Here are some suggestions for how to accomplish this: • • •
Give a presentation on NACURH and NRHH during a general body meeting. Invite a member of your Regional Board of Directors to videoconference into a meeting to talk about your regional affiliate. Since registration for NACURH 2016 opens February 1st, find creative ways to begin recruiting delegates.
RESOURCES. NACURH Residence Hall Month | nacurh.org/nrhm
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Questions? Contact Nathan Tack (chair@nacurh.org) or Danielle Melidona (naa@nacurh.org).