Making Contact- Contact can be made through a personal lead, telephone call or by mail. Generally, a personal contact/introduction will provide the best response. However, making a cold call or writing a letter to someone unknown can produce a similar response to the program. If you do not have a contact for a particular school, school district or law enforcement agency, these offices should be called directly to obtain the appropriate contact.

Scheduling the Appointment- Once you have made contact with the person in charge of the elementary materials or community service projects, secure an appointment with them. If you are asked how much time is necessary, be flexible. An appointment can take between 10-30 minutes. Ask for 30 minutes, but make it clear if time is a factor, your presentation can be modified to meet their needs.

Preparing for the Appointment- Obtain an Eddie Eagle sample kit (available by calling 800-231-0752). Review these materials to familiarize yourself with key program information. This will enable you to cover the important points as well as prepare you for possible questions. Ensure you are well-versed in what materials the program has to offer. It is also a good idea to send a letter prior to your appointment, confirming the date and time of your meeting.

The Appointment- It is important that you allow your contact ample time to review the materials in the sample kit. The materials are professional, easy to read, and in many instances "sell themselves." After presenting the samples and program information, answer any additional questions they may have and ask if they are interested in ordering the program materials.

The Follow-Up- Immediately write a thank-you letter to your contact for taking the time to discuss the program with you. Follow up with your contact 1-2 weeks after your appointment, unless you agreed on a specific time during your visit. (Sample thank-you letter is available in the Eddie Eagle volunteer handbook). Inquire if they ordered materials and if so, have they received them. If they are still reviewing the materials you provided, ask if there is any assistance you or the Eddie Eagle Department can provide.

How to Present The Eddie Eagle GunSafe^®Program to Children

Prior to the Presentation

• Plan ahead! Determine the number of children you will be teaching and their grade level. Materials should always be ordered 4 to 6 weeks in advance of your presentation.
• Thoroughly review the instructor guide and student workbooks.
• Make sure the school has the equipment you need for your presentation (ie: microphone, television, VCR, overhead projector, etc.).
• Confirm the date and time with the school a week before the presentation.

On the Day of the Presentation

• Arrive at least 30 minutes early. Check to see where you will be giving your presentation and that all equipment is working properly.
• Involve the students. Allow them to answer questions and actively participate. The instructor guide gives examples of methods for gaining student involvement.
• Applaud the children when correct answers are given. Make sure every student feels appreciated.
• If you use role-playing for instruction, pick a different group of children for each activity so more children can participate.
• Repeat the safety message throughout your presentation. Make sure that every child knows the message and the Eddie Eagle "shuffle" before leaving.
• If the Eddie Eagle mascot is used, remember to follow all the rules and guidelines found in the mascot handbook.

After the Presentation

• Thank the principal/teacher who invited you to come. Follow up with a thank you letter, and ask for an invitation to return next year.
• Give the Eddie Eagle Department your feedback by completing a volunteer activity report. Pictures, applicable newspaper articles, and copies of thank-you notes you received are also appreciated.