Communications: Media Relations Volunteer
Communications: Media Relations Volunteer
This position supports the Regional Communications and Public Affairs department. Red Cross Media Relations volunteers are part of a professional volunteer team that develops and delivers the Red Cross story behind-the-scenes, on-camera, in-person and online through media channels, websites, social media feeds and other content platforms.
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Remote/Virtual Volunteer Opportunity
Key Responsibilities
• Be on call during shifts to vet and assess media inquires, share information on smaller incidents, and notify leadership of need to scale up response.
• Serve as media spokesperson for local news outlets in person, over the phone or through Skype interviews.
• Work with chapter and regional leadership to write and pitch local stories to local media.
• Showcase Red Cross services and programs through earned media outreach at events, training, interviews, etc.
• Write and distribute media advisories and press releases.
• Maintain list of subject matter experts to speak with media.
• Maintain media log of queries, interviews and news stories.
• Create and maintain media lists.
Protect the reputation of the Red Cross by identifying and assessing potential for harm to Red Cross brand, misinformation or information gaps. Work with communications management to develop a strategic approach
Relationships
Communications, marketing and development staff, Red Cross volunteers, and community partners.
Development Opportunities
• Obtain Red Cross training and networking opportunities • Hands-on experience with a professional non-profit organization and staff • Opportunity to see work viewed by the public, promotional campaigns, and disaster communications
Qualifications
• Fully vaccinated for COVID-19 and submission of vaccine status and supporting documentation in Volunteer Connection if participating in in-person activities and/or performing work in a Red Cross facility.
• Media relations education and/or experience
• Background in Red Cross response (training provided), branding & messaging
• Submission of a portfolio of news releases, video clips of on-camera work or equivalent work samples
Training
Orientation to the American Red Cross • Public Affairs Essentials (Online) • Introduction to Red Cross Communications • Fundamentals of Disaster Public Affairs, National Response (Webinar) (Recommended) • Social Media Basics (Recommended)