Public Relations Plan

Peer Support Circles at Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS), IU Indianapolis, offer students a safe and supportive environment to discuss mental health challenges and learn coping strategies. To increase the program's visibility and engagement, a well-structured marketing media plan is essential. The primary target audience includes undergraduate and graduate students, particularly those experiencing stress, anxiety, or feelings of isolation. Secondary audiences include faculty, staff, and student organizations that can help promote the service. The plan aims to increase awareness of Peer Support Circles among students by 25% and boost participation rates by 20%, and enhance perceptions of CAPS as a trusted resource for mental health support.

To achieve these goals, a combination of digital and traditional media channels will be utilized. Social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter will feature engaging posts, success stories, and infographics about Peer Support Circles. Targeted email campaigns will share information about schedules, benefits, and registration. Traditional approaches, such as posters and bulletin boards in high-traffic areas like residence halls, libraries, and dining spaces, will provide consistent visibility. Collaborations with student organizations and campus influencers will further amplify the program's reach and credibility.

The content strategy will focus on building emotional connections while highlighting the practical benefits of the program. Testimonials, video snippets from sessions (with participant consent), and interactive social media posts like polls and quizzes will be used to engage the audience. Regular updates on session topics and guest facilitators will keep students informed and interested. To measure success, metrics such as social media engagement, email open rates, and attendance numbers will be tracked. A mid-term evaluation will help identify areas for improvement and allow adjustments to the plan to maximize effectiveness.