News
Media Intern to Explore Online Public Relations
As the public turns to the internet for news, entertainment and
information, Laurelville is looking to electronic media to stay in
touch with constituents.
Laurelville has hired Michael Spory, sophomore photography major
from Eastern Mennonite University, for a three-month media and communications
internship.
One of Spory’s projects will be exploring online networking sites
as potential resources for program-related online communities. “Our
hope is to provide a place for program participants to continue the
networking and idea-sharing that happens when they are at Laurelville
for a program,” says Erin Clymer, Laurelville program director.
Online community sites would provide a platform for program participants
to post and respond to questions, and share new resources and ideas
on specific subjects. For example, participants in the popular Music
and Worship Leaders program could post new hymn arrangements or ideas
for creative worship services.
Spory will also create a camp blog for staff to post regular updates
about summer camp activities for parents, upcoming programs, camp
news and insights from executive director, John Denlinger. The blog
will launch by mid-June. Online communities may be in place as early
as August.
Laurelville is planning to make use of the photography major to
gather a high-quality collection of camp photographs as well.
“Photography is how I relax,” says Spory. “Getting to do a lot of
photography without specific deadlines is very refreshing.”
In recent months Laurelville has launched a redesigned website,
unveiled a new logo, and created a new tagline: “restoring your spirit—naturally.”
While camps are uncertain about the impact economic fears will have
on camp use, Laurelville is focused on streamlining and unifying
communication tools to effectively reach current and potential constituents.
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