Volunteer Opportunities
If you are a member of PRSA Tampa Bay, we encourage you to maximize your membership by giving of your time and talents to help support the chapter. Serving on a committee is a great way to gain valuable experience and develop new skills while networking with fellow communications leaders.
If you would like to volunteer or would like more information about any of the below committees, please reach out to [email protected].
APRs can use volunteer opportunities as Continuing Education credits to maintain your accreditation in good standing.
Accreditation Committee
The Accreditation in Public Relations (APR) is a mark of distinction for public relations professionals who demonstrate their commitment to the profession and to its ethical practice. The APR is a voluntary certification program for public relations professionals, administered by the Universal Accreditation Board. Serving on this committee may include promoting the APR locally, mentoring candidates, and serving on readiness review panels.
Awards Committee
The chapter’s annual PRestige Awards program highlights compelling public relations initiatives in more than 20 different categories that demonstrate excellence in research, planning, implementation and evaluation. The Awards Committee organizes and promotes participation in the chapter’s annual awards program. The committee determines whether a theme is necessary, organizes event logistics and vendors, coordinates reciprocal judging of another chapter, and creates a communications plan for the awards.
Digital Communications Committee
The Digital Communications Committee strategically promotes chapter activities and member accomplishments, including chapter events, resources, and honors. Serving on this committee may include helping create graphics, managing social media accounts, updating the chapter website, and distributing emails to members and non-members.
The DEI Committee works to bring attention to diversity in the public relations profession and advocate for inclusivity for all. Their goal is to ensure PRSA is inclusive and welcoming by connecting with industry professionals of diverse racial backgrounds, ethnicities and sexual orientations and amplifying their stories. Serving on this committee may include contributing to the chapter blog, liaising with other committees, and supporting virtual/in-person events.
Media Roundtable Committee
The Media Roundtable Committee plans an annual opportunity to gain valuable insights into pitching stories, winning media coverage, and fostering connections with leading local and national journalists. Serving on the committee may include securing speakers, a venue, and sponsors.
Membership Committee
The Membership Committee focuses on the sustainability and growth of the chapter through member recruitment and retention. Serving on this committee may include welcoming new members, planning membership events, contacting lapsed members to encourage continued membership, and encouraging participation in committees and leadership positions.
Mentorship Committee
The Mentorship Committee oversees our mentorship program, which pairs a seasoned PR professional and chapter member with either a new professional or a local PR student. Committee members may volunteer to spearhead and/or assist with strategic oversight of the program, marketing and promotions for each application period, liaising with the University of South Florida and The University of Tampa faculty and student PRSSA leaders, reviewing applications and matching mentors and mentees, offering support to program participants and planning mentoring events.
Professional Development Day Committee
The Professional Development Day Committee plans the chapter’s annual half-day conference, which provides chapter members with programming to advance as practitioners, including lessons on leadership, PR best practices, and insights into managing their career path. Serving on the committee may include securing speakers and a venue.
Programs Committee
The Program Committee creates opportunities for members and non-members to participate in professional development and networking events. Serving on this committee may include securing speakers and venues for monthly programs.
Student Relations Committee (PRSSA)
The Student Relations Committee serves as a liaison to local PRSSA chapters and schools with PR/communications programs, including the PRSSA chapters at the University of South Florida and The University of Tampa. This committee assists in providing speakers for PRSSA meetings and other student groups, and strongly encourages PRSA associate membership and chapter membership after college graduation.
Sponsorships Committee
The Sponsorship Committee provides agencies, vendors and other corporate entities with comprehensive information about partnering with the chapter. Serving on this committee may include tracking and reaching out to potential sponsors, determining the sponsorship benefits, coordinating payment/billing, and maintaining relationships with current sponsors.