Copyright © 2014 by The University of Kansas Honoring Community Champions
Copyright © 2014 by The University of Kansas What is a community champion? A public official, a community leader, a concerned citizen, a health or human service worker, a volunteer, anyone who works hard and well to start and/or support an initiative or intervention, to bring a program or idea to reality, or to otherwise improve the quality of life of a particular group or of the community as a whole.
Copyright © 2014 by The University of Kansas Why honor community champions? It creates an example for the rest of the community to follow It provides an occasion to highlight and explain community issues It demonstrates that even one person can be an effective agent for change, and encourages democratic action
Copyright © 2014 by The University of Kansas Why honor community champions? (cont.) It makes not only that person, but others engaged in community service feel that they and their work are valued and appreciated It shows the community who the real heroes are It can help to prepare the community for future initiatives
Copyright © 2014 by The University of Kansas Who should honor community champions? Health and human service agencies. Local coalitions or initiatives. Advocacy organizations that focus on community concerns. United Way and other charitable organizations. Schools. Self-constituted citizen oversight or advocacy groups. Neighborhood associations
Copyright © 2014 by The University of Kansas When should you honor community champions? The achievement of a goal in which the champion has been deeply involved Community champions are honored on a regular basis Special occasions: National issue days, ceremonies
Copyright © 2014 by The University of Kansas How do you honor community champions? General guidelines for honoring a community champion Consider your resources Determine your process for selecting and notifying honorees Involve the media Personalize Give her something Record the occasion
Copyright © 2014 by The University of Kansas How do you honor community champions? (cont.) Some specific ways to honor community champions Issue a press release Hold a press conference Voice a public thank-you Put community champion awards on your website.
Copyright © 2014 by The University of Kansas How do you honor community champions? (cont.) Write or get published a newspaper article Present a small gift or award at a public event Present a major, unique award or gift, where the presentation is the reason for the event Have a party
Copyright © 2014 by The University of Kansas How do you honor community champions? (cont.) Hold a roast Regularly schedule community champion awards Continue to honor community champions forever