Resource Type: Research & Articles

The emerging body of “best practices” around peer-to-peer texting programs shared during this webinar includes: (1) Make a plan and factor in the learning curve. Create a calendar to make sure volunteer shifts match with campaign needs since it takes time for staff and volunteers to learn new technology and data processes. Don’t forget to factor in necessary training (and re-training); (2) Build personal, ongoing relationships. If possible, have the same volunteers text the same list of members and supporters to build trust and consistency in the relationship; (3) Test everything! Since the platform is relatively new, there is much to be learned – including motivating message content, layering with other modes of contact, which emojis generate the most actions, etc.; and (4) Honor opt-outs and don’t over-text.             

While the federal climate policy landscape remains bleak, over 50 cities have committed to 100% clean energy goals, on top of 180 mayors who have endorsed 100% policies, with new campaigns continuing to be rolled out. And this is pushing utilities’ adoption of renewables. Today we report on new Lab-supported work from Climate Access that provides in-depth lessons from the “Ready for 100” initiatives (joint campaigns between the Sierra Club and local partners across the country). This research includes a case study of the Ready for 100 programs, take-aways from efforts in six cities*, and a webinar* featuring the Pueblo, CO, and Atlanta campaigns. You can also check out a previous Lab alert about how to communicate a clean energy vision*.