WHAT TECHNOLOGY HELPED YOU MOVE OPERATIONS REMOTELY? In many ways, we built TreeHouse for this. We were already working remotely with our partners and created a remote training plan without any requirements for co-location. On the corporate staff side, everyone adjusted pretty quickly. There will always be some work that requires certain staff to be on-site – like checking mail and processing donations. From an operations standpoint, we are in the process of implementing Salesforce to help us track participants and measure key outcomes. We’re also building an app to help us stay connected with our teens. On the program side, we analyzed all of the different connection tools – Google, Zoom, Teams, and so on – to document features and compare them to our needs. Then we surveyed our teens to find out their preferred connecting technology, including social media platforms, gaming, and video sites – ultimately, Google Meets won out. Through our survey, we realized that technology is a privilege. Not all of our teens have access to technology. WHAT’S THE BEST WAY FOR SOMEONE TO SUPPORT TREEHOUSE? There are many ways to get involved with varying levels of commitment. First and foremost, it’s important to recognize a need in the community. From there, we have a few different ways to make an impact: Volunteer! We’re always looking for mentors and people who have a passion for working with teens or serving teens. Become an evangelist. Encourage folks to reach out to TreeHouse. Donate! Cha-ching, cha-ching. Funds are always helpful. Start a TreeHouse. If there’s a gap in the community, learn more about how to start a location.
ABOUT TREEHOUSE TreeHouse has been serving teens since 1979, helping them build relationships and resiliency rooted in living hope. Based in Minnesota, TreeHouse has sites across the country. Each location hosts programs that give teens a safe space to find support and belonging. Through mentorship, retreats, and other off-site activities, teens have the opportunity to build even deeper relationships with peers and caring adults.
TreeHouse teens connecting through programs and mentorship.
40 | Philanthropy Rules! TreeHouse
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