Give Thanks All the Time

Now that we are in the month of November, we’re growing closer to one of the best holidays of the year, Thanksgiving, where we gather with our close friends and family and eat a wonderful meal to show our appreciation for what we are graced to have in our lives.

However, it is important to realize that being thankful should be a year round practice and not just once a year. We all have a lot of blessings to count that need to be noted on more days than just one. This thankfulness translates into showing genuine passion, which can be very helpful as a public relations professional.

When in contact with anyone, whether it be a client, the agency or firm you work for, or any other member of the public, showing your genuine thankfulness goes a long way. If you are truly appreciative of someone doing a favor for you, being cooperative and kind, or lending a helping hand in any way, say thank you! Those two simple words go a long way, and they help you to look like an honest and caring communicator.

Another great practice is sending thank you notes. Sometimes, it’s nice to take that extra step and type up or write up a note from the heart to someone you appreciate. It’s a gesture that people recognize and enjoy more than you would think.

I’m not suggesting that you put on an act and show fake appreciation or “over-appreciation.” However, taking the time to show that you really care about people more than one day out of the year goes a long way; they always say if you have nothing nice to say, then don’t say anything at all, but I say if you have something nice to say, go ahead and say it. Public relations is all about honest and open communications, which means positive emotions are more than welcome in order to show that you really care about a client, coworker, friend, family member, or anyone else.

This blog post was written by Gavin Joyce, Vice President

Looking for a Weekend Getaway from Temple? Here Are Some of the Best Hidden Gems in Philadelphia

During my time at Temple, I have had the opportunity to discover and visit some of the most unique and beautiful sites that this city has to offer. Coincidentally, I lived only a 20-minute train ride from the city center before I went to college, so overall I had plenty of opportunities to experience some of Philadelphia’s distinctive features. I've taken the time to compile a rundown of some of my favorite hidden treasures in Philadelphia for people who are seeking to extend their horizons and discover something new in the city.

The first place on the list is Philadelphia's West Fairmount Park's Shofuso Japanese House and Garden, a 17th-century Japanese residence. The Shofuso house and garden, both in traditional Japanese style, represent the development of Japanese culture in Philadelphia. The 1953 construction of Shofuso, also known as "Pine Breeze Villa," is noteworthy. Junzo Yoshimura developed it for a display at the Museum of Modern Art in New York. The main structure, teahouse, and bathhouse are all examples of traditional Japanese architecture and were all constructed using Japanese materials and methods. This location is open from April to October and is ideal for a one-day excursion!

Center City's John F. Collins Park, a tranquil haven nestled on the corner of Chestnut and Ranstead streets, is the second hidden oasis on this list. The Center City District Foundation currently owns the park, which was created by John Collins. The park is the ideal place for a coffee break or to catch up with an old friend over lunch as it is home to some wonderful water features, artwork, and natural beauty.

Next up is Rail Park, which was originally home to unused and overgrown rail lines but has since been turned into a wonderful public space that is open to anyone. Looking for a quick escape from a busy workday or to take in the beauty of the city from above? You've come to the right place! Walking paths, swings, and native plants and trees run rampant in this three-mile-long park.

Here in the "city of brotherly love," there is a lot to learn. The city has something for everyone, from Japanese style gardens to secret caverns and former railroad parks converted into walking paths! Take the time to explore some of Philadelphia's hidden treasures, and you might come away with a newfound love for the city.

Conversation About Disability Awareness

This week we had a conversation with Abbie S. Fink and Nico Meyering to discuss Disability Awareness within the PR and professional realm. Both had interesting takes on different ways that organizations can be more inclusive, while making the environment for people with disabilities easily accessible and comfortable.

Abbie Fink is the Vice President and general manager of HMA Public Relations in Arizona. As a non-disabled person, she spoke to her own experiences about creating an inclusive and comfortable work environment. She was adamant that there have been efforts for better inclusivity, but the corporate world has a long way to go. There needs to be a willingness to be uncomfortable and ask difficult questions, so we can better learn how to appropriately include people with disabilities in an equitable environment. Employers can implement training courses that are little to no cost in order for the workplace to be accessible for people with differing disabilities. She brought up a motto that people within the company use: “Nothing About Us Without Us”. Including people with disabilities in the conversation is pivotal to making change.

Nico Meyering is a disability advocate, civic leader, and Tedx speaker. He spoke about his experiences being someone who has a disability and how environments within the corporate realm could be more accessible to people with disabilities. He would like to see people with different disabilities in every level of an organization from the boardroom to the mail room. We also need to make sure to speak with multi-marginalized people with disabilities, and give them the opportunity to speak for themselves, in order for their stories to be heard, so that there is a comfortable, accessible environment in work spaces. People with disabilities have the same set of skills as a person without a disability, but they are not always given the same opportunities as them. There is an array of different disabilities, cultures, and experiences. Employers should give them the same opportunities and voice, so that there is an accessible, comfortable environment for all people of different backgrounds.

This blog post was written by Jaelyn Jennings, General Body Member