Making a public participation toolkit

Having a toolkit ready for almost any type of presentation or public participation event will save you a lot of time and reduce your stress.

The first part of the toolkit is the toolbox. Use something with several pockets or compartments. I use a medium men's travel toiletry case. It is light and easy to carry because it folds up and has hooks for hanging onto a door (or the clip of my work case).

Inside the toolkit, have at least the following tools:

• Dry erase markers, four colors
• Whiteboard eraser and small bottle of whiteboard cleaner
  
• Flip chart markers, four colors and labeled to avoid mistaking them for the dry erase markers
• Large index cards, multiple colors
• Draft dots, multiple colors
• Sticky paper, such as Post-Its or similar paper
• Flash drive
• Laser pointer
• Box of pens
• Box of pencils
• Masking tape
• Household tape
• Stick-on badges
  
• Fine point markers, in standard land use colors
  
• Other small props you regularly use