Module 1: DEA Community Outreach
Joint Programs and Events
Planning DEA-Elks Joint Activities
When Elks and DEA work together on events and programs, the impact is greater than either could achieve alone. This lesson covers how to plan and execute successful joint activities.
Types of Joint Programs
Educational Events
- Community drug awareness forums
- Parent education nights
- School assembly programs
- Professional development for educators
Public Awareness Activities
- Red Ribbon Week kick-off events
- Press conferences and media events
- Community health fairs
- Prescription drug take-back days
Planning a Joint Event
Early Planning (8-12 weeks out)
- Define the event purpose and audience
- Discuss with DEA partner for input
- Choose date, time, and location
- Identify roles: who does what
Coordination (4-8 weeks out)
- Confirm DEA participation in writing
- Develop agenda and program flow
- Coordinate messaging and materials
- Handle logistics (venue, equipment, refreshments)
Execution (day of event)
- Arrive early to set up and greet partners
- Brief everyone on the program
- Make introductions appropriately
- Document the event with photos
Messaging Coordination
Ensure consistent messaging:
- Review presentation content together
- Agree on key messages
- Complement each other rather than repeat
- DEA provides law enforcement angle; Elks provide community angle
Shared Responsibilities
| Typically Elks Handle | Typically DEA Handles |
|---|---|
| Venue and logistics | Technical drug information |
| Promotion and invitations | Law enforcement perspective |
| Refreshments | Official DEA materials |
| Local school contacts | Speaker or presenter |
| Follow-up thank-yous | Any law enforcement displays |
After the Event
- Thank DEA partners promptly
- Share photos and media coverage
- Report outcomes and attendance
- Discuss lessons learned
- Plan for future collaboration
Building Ongoing Collaboration
One successful event leads to more:
- Debrief after each joint activity
- Identify what worked and what to improve
- Plan the next opportunity
- Expand scope as relationship strengthens