Public Relations Handbook - Narcotics Anonymous

chapter11E VENT P LANNINGWe usually think of NA events as a way to celebrate our recovery or make NAattractive to newcomers, but our events are also an opportunity to makepositive impressions on the public. During an event, a hotel staff person maybe wondering if a family member could benefit from NA, or a group ofmedical professionals may be noticing how supportive and prepared NA members seemto be during a presentation. Trusted servants need to be aware of the impact NA eventscan have on our relationships with the public. That awareness can allow us to anticipatethe opportunities and challenges that arise at NA events.Events that are specifically designed for the public can be effective vehicles foreducating the public about what NA has to offer. Community meetings that provideinformation about NA to the public can be the first step in forming meaningfulrelationships with the public.This chapter focuses on both internal NA events, such as learning days andfellowship activities, and external NA events, such as community meetings andprofessional events.Core public relations principlesThis section is excerpted from Chapter Two.Key topicsCore PR principlesPR & event planningPlanning & preparation forareas & committeesPutting your plan intoactionResourcesKey icons Practical experience Preparation and training tips PR principles for discussionAttraction…Another important consideration inmaking our public relations efforts morevaluable is the attractiveness of thebehaviors and attitudes of individual NAmembers, and the collective appearanceof our fellowship. Attraction means thatwe function, as members and as groups,in ways that naturally draw others to us.When members act in ways that areattractive, this fosters identification andgives potential members a sense ofbelonging. Has the committee considered theevent’s format (including speakers)as an important part of creating anattractive NA message? How does our individual behaviorimpact the attractiveness of theNA program?October 2006 | PR Handbook | 97