Recently Jim Jenks from Collinson Media & Events spoke with Unique Venues Magazine to share some advice on hosting religious functions on a college campus.
Here is what he had to say:
COST SAVINGS ADD UP
Cost is one of the biggest factors behind choosing a campus setting. The rates of the residence halls are so much more affordable and planners can get more bang for their buck.
UNIVERSITIES ARE ADAPTING TO CUSTOMS
Collegiate conference departments are eager to accommodate religious groups that are different and unique in their own ways. And many are adapting, especially when it comes to food and making sure kitchens are primed to meet the customary needs of these groups. There are more and more people of all faiths with special dietary needs and catering is keeping up with the demand for providing gluten-free, kosher and vegetarian menus.
HOUSING IS ADAPTABLE
More so than hotels, campus housing is arranged to meet the needs of traditional groups who’d like to book separate spaces for men and women. As well, there are a number of options suited to family or youth groups, too.
MAKE RFPS DETAILED
The biggest rule of thumb for planners is to work on building a relationship with a collegiate conference department and always be as specific as possible with them, especially on the RFP. If there are any unique needs for your group, large or small, you’ll want to list them in your proposal so that the team can know what you will need and will be able to accept or decline the request if they can’t meet the requirements.
Thank you, Jim, for sharing your thoughts on faith-based meetings on campus!