The term "media" refers to all means of mass communication in your community—news and nonnews, local and national. It is largely through these publications, broadcasts, visual displays, and advertisements that you and everyone in your community learn what's going on.

Media vary widely in how many people they reach. Your school newspaper, for example, reaches far fewer readers than a national newspaper or magazine. Different media organizations also have different goals. Your school newspaper reports on items of interest to you and your classmates, such as student elections, dances, and athletic events, while a major newspaper concentrates on stories of regional, national, and international importance.

News media include daily and weekly newspapers, television, radio, and news magazines. Other communications fall within the term "media," such as billboards; neighborhood and community newsletters; cable television (TV) providers; and posters, magazines, and newsletters.

Whatever their audience size, purpose, or affiliation, the media in your community reach and inform almost everyone. Partnerships with the media, therefore, will allow you to get your crime prevention message to individuals and organizations that help decide exactly what your community sees, hears, and reads.

There are so many messages to send, so many stories to tell, so many people to reach. The media offer direct and often immediate access to people in their schools, homes, and workplaces. They may even reach people driving in their cars as they listen to the radio or read billboard messages. Given the media's far-reaching effects, establishing lasting partnerships with newspapers, magazines, TV and radio stations, advertising companies, and other communications organizations is important in your effort to publicize your program and prevent crime.

Youth in Action Bulletin

March 2000     Number 14