On January 19, Kissimmee Utility Authority Vice President of Corporate Communications, FPRA Orlando member, and a multiple FPRA Golden Image Award winner Chris Gent, APR, CPRC, shared some behind-the-scenes stories and details about his FPRA Golden Image Award winning entries.
Kissimmee Utility Authority reaches out to identify community partners to create events that engage their customers and also assist in supporting those non-profit organizations they partner with. While sharing details of a community project Kissimmee Utility Authority partnered on with the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office, he reminded the audience that the focus of their Golden Image Award entry didn’t have to be a large project like this one that provided 51 teddy bears to help comfort children at crime scenes, fires and crashes. What counts is the impact the project has on the community and how you communicate those details to the Image Award Committee in the summary.
Another successful outreach project was in partnership with the Osceola County Animal Services. After taking over movie night from the city’s parks and recreation department who was in need of support, Kissimmee Utility Authority screened the movie “The Secret Life of Pets” for the community and Osceola County Animal Services was invited to bring adoptable pets to the event. The movie drew more than 2,500 people and all of the animals, including two rabbits were adopted that day.
Chris advised luncheon attendees to carefully read the requirements for the FPRA Golden Image Award submittal process and make sure to include all of the details requested in the two-page summary. He encouraged members to apply, saying “Great ideas can come from anywhere – don’t be afraid to try something different.”
Thank you to Dawn McKinstry Photography who provided free professional headshots to our members prior to the program.
