Mecklenburg County's commitment to efficiently communicate with its residents has garnered national acclaim, with the local Public Information Department bagging eight Awards of Excellence from the National Association of County Information Officers (NACIO). This organization annually recognizes the most effective and compelling county government communications efforts across the country. Announced on July 13, at the NACIO annual board meeting in Tampa, Florida, the accolades highlight a diversity of content from safety awareness to the realms of public mental health engagement.
The roster of awards features a variety of categories, demonstrating Mecklenburg County's ability to not only connect with, but also to educate and involve its community across a broad spectrum of touchpoints. Standouts include the high honors for the Park and Recreation Visual Brand Guidelines and a poignant nod for flood safety initiatives during Severe Weather Preparedness Week. Always to strive to be at the forefront of digital engagement, the county's newly revamped website and platform migration earnt an Excellent Performance nod in the Website category.
"I’m so proud of our team. They work hard on a daily basis telling the County’s story and it’s an honor to be recognized," said Danny Diehl on Mecklenburg County website , Director of Public Information in a statement celebrating the occasion. This sentiment mirrors the broader objective of the department—to weave the narrative of Mecklenburg with clarity and authenticity, ensuring every strand resonates with the fabric of the community it serves.
Moreover, the awards testify to Mecklenburg's ongoing dialogues and interventions within public health and safety. Special mention was given to the "Making the Ride Easier for People with Dementia" featured article, and the Behavioral Health Strategic Plan featured on Mecklenburg County website, both critical resources purposed to ease and support the complex journeys of its residents. Even in branding, the county seemed to effortlessly capture attention with the Superior Performance in Logos for Tiger Day, again proving their commitment to connect in simple yet meaningful ways.
Amidst these victories, the Public Information Department does not waver in its mission. With a continued promise to engage, inform, and uplift, Mecklenburg's storytelling prowess remains, as ever, in service of its community. Remaining awards received by the department included works such as the Mecklenburg County Social Media Handbook and a Meritorious Performance in the Long Video category for "Dear Second Ward", rounding out an impressive suite of honors that speak to the heart of the county's dedication to its people. For more information and insights into the county's award-winning efforts, visit their website at MeckNC.gov.
