NARFE Chapter and Federation Public Relations “Making it work” NARFE Chapter and Federation Public Relations “Making it work”

Where Do We Fit? (From NARFE Chapter & Federations Officers Manual) Where Do We Fit? (From NARFE Chapter & Federations Officers Manual) Public Relations Officer (Another Officer position) Public Relations Committee Communications – Chapter Newsletter All relate to the entire organization Public Relations Officer (Another Officer position) Public Relations Committee Communications – Chapter Newsletter All relate to the entire organization

Developing PR Plans Context Audience Media Messages PR Tools Coordinated Planning Context Audience Media Messages PR Tools Coordinated Planning

Developing PR Plans CONTEXT What are the organization mission and objectives, long and short term? What is the organization potential, in terms of volunteers, interest and funding? What are the demographics? What federal facilities are in or near the area? What and where is the retiree population? How many current members do we have and where are they located? What is their age?

Developing PR Plans AUDIENCE Who do we want to reach with the overall PR plan or specific event? 1. Chapter members 2. Spouses of members 3. Non-member federal retirees 4. Current Federal employees 5. Members of local community 6. Members of other agencies and organizations in the community 7. Local members of other coalition organizations 8. Other

Developing PR Plans MEDIA What media are likely to reach the intended audience(s) Chapter newsletter Daily Newspapers, Specific sections Weekly newspapers Senior newspapers or publications Local radio stations – Depending on format Local public access television stations (Programs and bulletin boards) Bulletin Boards for NARFE posters and flyers Federal agency publications (newsletters, newspapers)

Developing PR Plans MEDIA (2) Community web sites, often hosted by newspapers, radio and TV stations Special publications listing non-for-profits NARFE Magazine Phone directories (listing of service agencies or not-for-profits, if this can be done without cost) Federal agency bulletin boards, distro racks Pre-Retirement Seminars – NARFE Booth & Talks Health Fairs – NARFE Booth Other

Developing PR Plans MESSAGES Regular meeting times and locations Meeting announcements (Including speaker info) Special Events conducted by chapter Support of Pre-Retirement Seminars and Health Fairs Participation in public events Service capabilities NARFE support of both member and non-member retirees Information on benefit issues (such as GPO/WEP, Premium Conversion, etc.)

Developing PR Plans MESSAGES (2) General statements of NARFE mission – include in most releases Member attendance at state and national functions Member participation in or with other organizations with related goals Chapter or chapter member participation in community support programs, like Habitat for Humanity, Make a Difference Day, “Walks for …”, etc. Other

Developing PR Plans PR Tools Releases Fact Sheets / Press Kits / Fact Book Story Ideas NARFE Posters & Flyers NARFE Magazine Chapter Speakers NARFE and Chapter Web Sites Display Units Chapter Newsletter Advertising “Specialty Items”

Developing PR Plans National PR Support & Resources NARFE Magazine PR Handbook (FH-9) Duties & Responsibilities – Public Relations Officer (F-57) PR News and Views Speak Out NARFE Web Site – Various Sections NARFE Handouts and Publications NARFE Videos – Retirees and CFE

Developing PR Plans Coordinated Planning Plan at least quarterly Consider, and write down: Context and Objectives Scheduled events/activities Audiences, Messages, Media and PR Tools Determine required resources Set action deadlines Designate individuals responsible for actions Follow-up and assist where required Review results prior to next planning session

Planned Public Relations The Results Aware, informed audiences Familiarity with NARFE and its issues Enhanced recruiting Increased participation in community Improved attendance Public understanding of NARFE