Communications

Communicating the impact and importance of Michigan's Community Health Centers is an important piece of MPCA's mission to support, promote and develop comprehensive, accessible, and affordable community-based health care services to everyone in Michigan.

From promoting the quality services CHCs offer to working with members of the media, the MPCA Communications Team is here to help you get access to the resources and assistance you need to build a strong, effective communication plan for your community.

Feature Story: New Technology Brings Social Advantages

According to a new study by the Pew Internet and American Life Project and contrary to popular belief, technology is NOT woman on the internet

leading to social isolation and Americans who use the Internet and mobile phones have larger and more diverse social networks.

"All the evidence points in one direction," said Keith Hampton, lead author of the report. "People's social worlds are enhanced by new communication technologies.”

The authors said key findings of the study, Social Isolation and New Technology, "challenge previous research and commonplace fears about the harmful social impact of new technology."

“It turns out that those who use the Internet and mobile phones have notable social advantages," Hampton said. "People use the technology to stay in touch and share information in ways that keep them socially active and connected to their communities."

Featured Event: Writing Effective Press Releases

Well-written, effective press releases are fantastic opportunities to bring free publicity to your Health Center and continue to build a strong reputation in your community. The webinar archived below looks at what goes into writing good press releases, tips for getting press coverage, and how to take advantage of new technology to expand the reach of your press releases beyond traditional media.

Archived Webinar (Streaming Video)
Writing Effective Press Releases (Presentation)
Successful Press Releases: The Journalist's Perspective (Presentation)

Communications Resources

HHS Guidance on Advertising and Public Relations Costs
Getting the Message Through- Getting creative with marketing and outreach initiatives
Biggest Bang for Your Buck- Creating a marketing plan that works
Social Networking 101- A fundamental shift in the way we communicate
100 Ways to Measure Social Media
Principles of Effective Website Design
Making Your Mark- Everyday Marketing Opportunities
Strategic Communications Planning Guide
Tips for Writing Effective Press Releases
Social Media for Nonprofits
Facebook Best Practice Guide
Twitter for Nonprofits
Why Blogging Matters

Advocacy Resources

Health Center Advocacy- Recruit, retain and engage advocates for your Community Health Center
NACHC Advocacy Tools
MPCA Grassroots Advocacy Center
Legislative Tracking Website (thomas.gov)
Basic Introduction to CHC Advocacy for Staff and Patients
Basic Advocacy Training for CHC Board Members

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Communications

Feature Story: New Technology Brings Social Advantages

Featured Event: Writing Effective Press Releases

Communications Resources

Advocacy Resources

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