Public Relations
Effective public relations helps spread the DAP message and builds community awareness about drug prevention. This guide provides tips for State and Lodge Chairs on promoting the program.
Working with Local Media
Section titled “Working with Local Media”Building Relationships
Section titled “Building Relationships”- Introduce yourself to local newspaper editors, TV station community coordinators, and radio program directors
- Provide your contact information as a resource for drug awareness stories
- Offer to be interviewed as an expert on youth drug prevention in your area
Press Releases
Section titled “Press Releases”When sending press releases about DAP events or activities:
- Include the 5 W’s: Who, What, When, Where, Why
- Keep it to one page
- Include a quote from a local Elk or DAP volunteer
- Attach high-resolution photos when available
- Send releases 2-3 weeks before events
Photo Opportunities
Section titled “Photo Opportunities”- Invite media to Red Ribbon Week events, school presentations, and community outreach
- Ensure proper consent forms are signed before photographing minors
- Share photos with local publications and on social media
Social Media Best Practices
Section titled “Social Media Best Practices”Platforms to Consider
Section titled “Platforms to Consider”- Facebook (best for reaching parents and community members)
- Instagram (effective for event photos and reaching younger audiences)
- Local community groups and neighborhood apps
Content Ideas
Section titled “Content Ideas”- Photos from school presentations and community events
- Red Ribbon Week activities
- Contest winner announcements
- Educational facts about drug prevention
- Volunteer spotlights
Guidelines
Section titled “Guidelines”- Always get permission before posting photos of minors
- Use hashtags like #ElksDAP, #DrugFreeKids, #RedRibbonWeek
- Tag your local Lodge and State Association accounts
- Respond promptly to comments and messages
- Keep messaging positive and focused on prevention
Community Outreach
Section titled “Community Outreach”Speaking Opportunities
Section titled “Speaking Opportunities”- Rotary clubs, Kiwanis, and other civic organizations
- PTA/PTO meetings
- School board meetings
- Chamber of Commerce events
- Health fairs and community festivals
Key Talking Points
Section titled “Key Talking Points”- The Elks have supported drug awareness education since 1983
- DAP reaches millions of youth annually through school programs
- All materials are provided free of charge to schools and communities
- Local Elks volunteers make the program possible
- The program is funded by the Elks National Foundation
Promotional Materials
Section titled “Promotional Materials”Available Resources
Section titled “Available Resources”- DAP Artwork - Logos, Elroy images, and graphics for promotional use
- Print Materials Catalog - Brochures and educational materials
- Contest winner artwork can be featured in local publications
Branded Items
Section titled “Branded Items”Contact your State Chair about ordering promotional items such as:
- Banners and signs
- Pens, pencils, and school supplies
- Stickers and temporary tattoos
- Wristbands
Measuring Success
Section titled “Measuring Success”Track your PR efforts by noting:
- Number of media mentions and articles
- Social media engagement (likes, shares, comments)
- Event attendance
- New volunteer inquiries
- School and community requests for presentations
Share your successes with your State Chair and in your quarterly reports to help showcase the impact of DAP in your community.