Living in Luzern
Luzern, Switzerland
Year Founded:
Project Stage:
2009
Organization type:
hybrid
Growth
Budget:
$10,000 - $50,000
Example: Walk us through a specific example(s) of how this solution makes a difference; include its primary activities.
We have had a huge impact. For starters, the blog hits are increasing month over month since we relaunched in 2011. By using social media such as facebook, we've been able to see people connecting with each other. We also launched some print media (2 information booklets) for free which were widely received.
Impact: What is the impact of the work to date? Also describe the projected future impact for the coming years.
The impact has been that people have connected with each other and that they are no longer isolated. They are also getting out in the community and doing and experiencing more things because they have all the insider tips they wouldn't have otherwise had. We've helped to grow several small businesses as well.
Financial Sustainability Plan: What is this solution’s plan to ensure financial sustainability?
We now have partnered up with local businesses and some much larger Swiss corporations who have given money to help us fulfill our financial obligations. We rely heavily on people to do a large amount of work for a very little pay. Typically, these are the trailing spouses who are seeking purpose so it has been a good solution. Slowly, we've been able to pay slightly better and yet keep the volunteer spirit.
Marketplace: Who else is addressing the problem outlined here? How does the proposed project differ from these approaches?
No one is addressing this issue to the degree we are. There are two local clubs (Swiss American Society and the International Women's Club). There is also a local church with services in English and a website called lucerne4you.ch. Our solution is very hands on, very live and has the largest following/impact in the area.
Founding Story
There was no real 'Aha!' moment, it has been slow and steady work over 4 years that has finally made everything click. Certainly a big piece of this was switching the website to WordPress and being able to track the reaches the blog was making.
Comments
Anyone have any ideas about online advertising? Trying to determine rates for our partners.