THIRTY-SEVEN delegates from 14 countries, representing the communications work of 11 Salvation Army territories and commands from across Europe, are meeting in Prague, Czech Republic, to network, share best practice and build synergy. The European Communications Network (ECN) is one of several networks overseen by The Salvation Army's Europe Zone.
'The networks are vitally important to The Salvation Army in Europe,' says Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts, Under Secretary for Europe at International Headquarters (IHQ). 'The Communications Network brings together communications and fundraising professionals with the common goal of building the brand and strengthening fundraising programmes. All this is to support the Army's mission.'
The Netherlands and Czech Republic Territory is hosting the annual event, which is moved around Europe. Lieut-Colonel Marion Drew, Communications Secretary for the United Kingdom Territory with the Republic of Ireland, is this year's ECN Chair.
Topics being covered include developments and trends in social media, and effective marketing of fundraising initiatives, campaigns and apps (online applications). Delegates are also benefiting from opportunities to visit thriving Salvation Army projects in the Czech capital.
Major John Murray, IHQ Communications Secretary and Literary Secretary, and David Giles, IHQ Web Manager, are participating in the ECN meeting with their Europe Zone colleagues. 'Global communications are continuous,' says Major Murray, 'and the opportunity to build relationships and cultivate a common understanding of how and when we communicate is exciting.'
The ECN meeting commenced on Sunday evening with dinner and plenary remarks and concludes on Wednesday 12 March 2014.
Report by IHQ Communications
International Headquarters
