For more information contact:
Tony Faucette
Ed Kemp Associates
(336) 869-2155
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
United Way of North Carolina Chooses Ed Kemp Associates To Spread The Word About NC 2-1-1
Marks First Time A Professional Agency Is Used To Market The Phone Service
May 23, 2012, [High Point, NC]…………..Ed Kemp Associates (EKA), a premier marketing agency headquartered in High Point, today announced its newest account. The agency will partner with the United Way of North Carolina to create and implement a year-long marketing plan promoting NC 2-1-1, the free, 24/7 phone service that connects North Carolinians with community health and human service resources. EKA faced some stiff competition, as numerous marketing agencies across the state submitted proposals.
“The Ed Kemp team clearly understood our mission and challenges. They brought fresh ideas and innovative strategy to the table. Together, we know we can create a strong identity for NC 2-1-1 to ensure more North Carolinians get connected to the help they need, when they need it most,” said Jill Cox, Government Relations and CommunicationsDirector for the United Way of North Carolina.
The EKA relationship marks the first time United Way of North Carolina has partnered with a professional marketing firm to market NC 2-1-1. The free, confidential, multi-lingual phone service is currently available to 85%of all North Carolinians with 24/7 information and referral service.
“There are 30,000 nonprofits in North Carolina,” said Jon Kemp, EKA President. “If you need help for yourself or a loved one, who would you call – where would you start your search? NC 2-1-1 makes navigating through all those organizations and services a snap.”
Callers simply dial 2-1-1 for information on vital local services. The servicehas comprehensive information about nearly every available health and human service in the state. NC 2-1-1 also maintains a comprehensive database of volunteer opportunities. Call specialists are trained and certified, and use a translation service to assist callers in over 400 languages.
A typical day for a NC 2-1-1 call specialist might have them assisting callers with such varied issues as: affordable child care, drug or alcohol problems, food stamp eligibility, health and mental health resources, food, clothing and housing, or services for seniors and the disabled. Mobile phone callers can dial 1-888-892-1162, toll-free to access the 2-1-1 service.
EKA’s scope of work for the NC 2-1-1 project will include extensive research, branding and identity work, website development, and the creation of digital and traditional collateral. Social media and public relations elements will also be part of the plan. All efforts will be designed to raise awareness and visibility of the 2-1-1 system among target populations, resulting in increased utilization of the service. Funding is available for this project thanks to a generous grant from Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina.
Ed Kemp Associates has a proven track record assisting other non-profit agencies across the state with low cost, high return marketing strategies. The agency has worked closely with Boys & Girls Clubs, Big Brothers/Big Sisters, Communities in Schools, the Muscular Dystrophy Association, and the Guilford County Partnership for Children.
About Ed Kemp & Associates www.edkemp.com
Ed Kemp Associates is a digital and traditional advertising and marketing firm headquartered in High Point, NC that has been creating award-winning work for clients since 1961. EKA has received local, regional and national honors for its work with North State Communications, High Point Regional Health System, Photobiz.com, Century Furniture, Atrium Windows and Doors and others.
About United Way of North Carolina www.unitedwaync.org
United Way of North Carolina is a state organization representing 57 North Carolina United Way organizations. Its mission is to increase the capability of the United Way system to improve the quality of human life in North Carolina.
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