For the first time ever a diocese of the Anglican Church of Canada will recognize excellence and innovation in parish communications materials and practice. The Communications Exchange Awards is an initiative of the Communications Committee of the Diocese of New Westminster.

"This is not a contest, but a fun project to encourage creative communications, regardless of parish size or budget," said Communications Committee chair Jane Osler

Parishes will be able to compete in the "larger" or "smaller" divisions, as they self-designate.

Entries will be judged by a panel of communication industry professionals and presented at the end of Synod 2008, May 30 and 31 where the top entries will be showcased. Gold, Silver and Bronze awards will be presented in both large and small parish divisions.

Committee member Rod Malkin said that the award will need a short name-just as the Motion Picture Academy's Awards were nicknamed called "Oscars." He has suggested the name, "Nealies"--a suggestion which Communications Officer and Editor of TOPIC Neale Adams is pondering.

Entry details will be posted on the diocesan website. Entries will open January 30, and close April 1. Some 14 categories have been selected, which are listed at right. For more information call 604 684-6306 ext. 223, or email nadams@vancouver.anglican.ca.

Categories

  • Service Bulletin
  • Parish Newsletter
  • Poster
  • Advertisement
  • Brochure
  • Fundraising Package (letter, flyer, response vehicle)
  • Logo (new, improved or existing)
  • Parish Identity Package( including logo, letterhead, signage)
  • Signs (new or existing)
  • Press Release (with clippings if any)
  • Public Relations Event (description and photo)
  • Website
  • Broadcast E-mail
  • Special Project (e.g., calendar, cookbook)