Erica Stokes
Dublin,GA
Summary
Dynamic and results-driven Public Relations and Media Consultant with extensive experience in outreach, media strategy, and community engagement. Known for developing compelling content, building strategic relationships, and leading outreach initiatives that foster collaboration and strengthen community support. Proficient in media platforms, communications, and public relations, with a deep commitment to fostering positive societal impact through storytelling and connection. Recognized for contributions to community work, with an upcoming award from Nu Xi Sigma, Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.
Overview
5
5
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Facilitator
Community Service Board of Middle Georgia
Dublin, GA
10.2021 - Current
- Spearhead outreach initiatives across 16 counties, facilitating partnerships between community organizations, healthcare providers, and local stakeholders
- Successfully merged the Voices of Hope Suicide Prevention Education Committee with LOCC to streamline efforts for mental health and suicide prevention
- Engage in public speaking, representing the agency at events and community meetings, fostering collaboration and expanding CSBMG's network of partners
- Lead the Co-Responder Initiative, partnering with local law enforcement to bridge gaps in mental health crisis interventions
- Regularly publish 40-50 page electronic newsletters that highlight community achievements, agency updates, and outreach campaigns.
Community Relations Coordinator & Director of Business Development
Community Service Board of Middle Georgia
Dublin, GA
10.2021 - Current
- Develop and execute outreach strategies to build stronger relationships with community stakeholders, resulting in increased visibility and support for behavioral health services
- Lead outreach campaigns that have resulted in new partnerships and expanded services across sixteen counties
- Managed multiple social media accounts and digital platforms, increasing community engagement and awareness of mental health services
- Designed and led successful fundraising events, including the annual Behavioral Health Symposium and multiple community collaborative meetings.
Public Relations & Media Consultant (Freelance)
Remote
01.2020 - Current
- Provide strategic media consulting and content creation services for clients across various industries, specializing in nonprofit and healthcare sectors
- Develop targeted communication strategies to boost public image, manage crises, and engage key audiences
- Design engaging social media content, improving brand visibility and community reach for clients
- Deliver polished presentations and media releases to foster positive media relations and stakeholder engagement.
Education
Master of Arts in Communications (Public Relations) -
Southern New Hampshire University
07.2024
Bachelor of Arts in Sociology -
Southern New Hampshire University
12.2022
Skills
- Public Relations Strategy
- Community Outreach & Networking
- Social Media Management
- Content Creation & Media Relations
- Event Planning & Fundraising
- Crisis Communication
- Digital Marketing
- Public Speaking
- Stakeholder Engagement
- Newsletter & Blog Writing
Accomplishments
- Featured in the media for community outreach efforts:“It’s been 1 year since suicide and crisis hotline 988 launched” – 13WMAZ, July 14, 2023
“Area Service Board Can Help Communities Meet Needs” – The Advance News, February 15, 2023
“How Community Service Board of Middle Georgia Utilized $1.356 Million Grant to Help Incarcerated People Transition” – 13WMAZ
Video Interview: CSBMG and Mental Health Support Services – YouTube Interview
- To be awarded by Nu Xi Sigma, Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. on November 2nd, 2024, for outstanding contributions to the community.
- Successfully led outreach efforts for multiple community-based initiatives, including addiction recovery support, mental health awareness, and family support services.
- Facilitated partnerships with local businesses, healthcare providers, and government agencies, resulting in expanded resources for underserved communities.
- Developed and published high-impact social media content that increased community engagement by 40% across multiple platforms.
Certification
- Certified Peer Specialist (CPS)
- QPR Suicide Prevention Instructor
- Certified Mindset Train the Trainer Instructor
Softwareproficiencies
- Microsoft Office Suite
- Adobe Creative Suite
- Canva
- Flipsnack
- TEAMS
- Publisher
Volunteercommunityinvolvement
- Active member in local addiction recovery awareness and mental health initiatives.
- Regularly volunteers at community events aimed at increasing public access to mental health and addiction recovery services.
Keyaccomplishments
- Featured in the media for community outreach efforts: 'It’s been 1 year since suicide and crisis hotline 988 launched' – 13WMAZ, 07/14/23
- 'Area Service Board Can Help Communities Meet Needs' – The Advance News, 02/15/23
- 'How Community Service Board of Middle Georgia Utilized $1.356 Million Grant to Help Incarcerated People Transition' – 13WMAZ
- Video Interview: CSBMG and Mental Health Support Services – YouTube Interview
- To be awarded by Nu Xi Sigma, Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. on 11/02/24, for outstanding contributions to the community.
- Successfully led outreach efforts for multiple community-based initiatives, including addiction recovery support, mental health awareness, and family support services.
- Facilitated partnerships with local businesses, healthcare providers, and government agencies, resulting in expanded resources for underserved communities.
- Developed and published high-impact social media content that increased community engagement by 40% across multiple platforms.
- Organized and hosted large-scale events such as the 2024 Behavioral Health Symposium and Rock Out 4 Recovery, bringing together hundreds of participants and increasing awareness of addiction recovery.
- Assisted in the establishment of a women’s long-term residential facility and played a key role in promoting community support for the project.
Timeline
Facilitator
Community Service Board of Middle Georgia
10.2021 - Current
Community Relations Coordinator & Director of Business Development
Community Service Board of Middle Georgia
10.2021 - Current
Public Relations & Media Consultant (Freelance)
01.2020 - Current
Master of Arts in Communications (Public Relations) -
Southern New Hampshire University
Bachelor of Arts in Sociology -
Southern New Hampshire University