Step 3. Who? Identifying and Recruiting a Presenter

What groups or individuals in the community have expertise and interest in the content?

Sometimes, several speakers from different disciplines can provide a comprehensive perspective, depending on the specific topic, content, and format of the presentation. For instance, a law-enforcement officer and a healthcare provider can complement each other in delivering the material effectively.

Three key criteria for selecting speakers:

• Expertise with the content
• Ability to convey material in an interesting manner
• Willingness to participate and help in the promotion

Are your speakers appropriate for culturally diverse populations?

Try to find speakers who are either from the targeted culture or who know the language. At the least, they should have knowledge of or experience with the community.

Your insight as a community resource for each audience increases the presenter's understanding of traditions and beliefs. Ignorance of cultural and community differences can negatively affect programs. In contrast, incorporating knowledge about the culture or community into programs increases the potential for success.

Is your speaker familiar with community resources?

Speakers may be knowledgeable about laws, safety issues or healthcare but not about services and access issues in your community. If your speaker is not knowledgeable in these areas, you may want to team the presenter with social workers, case managers, transportation providers, or information and referral specialists from your community.