NCJ Number
219282
Date Published
September 2008
Length
1 page
Annotation
This toolkit provides easy-to-use instructions for planning a communications campaign and offers sample tools of the trade for Weed and Seed strategies, which is an innovative, comprehensive multiagency approach to law enforcement, crime prevention, and community revitalization.
Abstract
The toolkit provides instruction in the basics for mounting a communications campaign that describes and promotes Weed and Seed strategies. Suggestions are provided for motivating the community, reaching sponsors, raising awareness of Weed and Seed strategies and activities, promoting events and resources that tout Weed and Seed activities and achievements, and building partnerships in the community. A section of the toolkit entitled “Tools of the Trade” includes samples, checklists, and worksheets, as well as resources. Another section of the toolkit provides guidance on designing a marketing strategy. Topics addressed are the definition of marketing, how to think like a marketer, and the importance of asking the right questions. Another component of the toolkit focuses on tailoring the message to be communicated. This section elaborates on the following advice: focus your communication; identify cultural differences; and use appropriate language. The final component of the toolkit provides guidance on finding local partners to assist in a communications campaign. Suggestions are offered for recruiting residents and forming a steering committee as well as involving civic groups, mass media, faith-based organizations, colleges and universities, advertising and public relations firms, and U.S. Attorneys’ Offices.