[Simon Strauss]

Try to become friendly with a reporter from the local newspaper, chances are if you compile the connections of all of the kids on your team you can find some good ones. We did this through a member who knew a reporter at the Riverdale Press, through whom we have been the subject of multiple articles which have helped tremendously in gaining the support of the community.

The support of your school is also fairly easy to gain. Showing off the robot by creating a small obstacle course and allowing students not on the team to attempt it you are able to get nonmembers not only excited about robots but also allows them to further grasp the concepts of what you are doing and why you dedicate so much time to it.

Also remember that the easiest part of the community to gain the support of is that of your family and friends. Parents love nothing more than a reason to brag about their kids and robotics fits quite well in the discussions of our tech savy youth. By just getting these people more aware of what you are doing you are getting your name onto the streets through finding a place in their discussions with others, which helps immensely.

-Simon