OPRC Guidebook | Jhill Learning And C

OPRC Member Guidebook

While online training is popular, sometimes a more tangible option is the best choice for non-technical audiences.

To address a lack of participation and declining educational engagement in an equine enthusiast group, I developed a member guidebook paired with an achievement badge system. The goal was to inspire involvement through positive reinforcement and structured learning.

Challenges

Low confidence

Members were hesitant to host events due to lack of confidence or tech skills.

Little support

There was no clear guide or support for participation.

Disengagement

Volunteer fatigue and unacknowledged contributions created disengagement.

Lack of focus

The group was drifting away from its educational roots.

Solution

Inspired by my years as a Girl Scout, I designed a printed guidebook featuring a series of themed badges. Each badge is tied to specific club activities, equine skills, or knowledge areas. This system helped:

Recognize and reward contributions
Motivate members through tangible goals
Reinforce a sense of community and shared learning

Badge pages define required steps

Online files provide guidance and links

Badge stickers provide tangible rewards

Impact

Launched in early 2024, the program quickly gained traction. By year-end, the 28-member group had earned more than 300 badges, marking a significant boost in participation, peer support, and continued learning. Members who had rarely or never participated in the past stepped up to host and attend events.