Focus

For the past several months, NRCA has been conducting small focus groups with members and nonmembers alike. Often, what occurs during these discussions is roofing contractors—regardless of their NRCA membership status—are unaware of all the association does to advance the roofing industry on their behalf.

However, the media has been covering NRCA activities, and now that the association is embarking on a full-fledged public relations campaign, the exposure will only increase.

For example, between Nov. 4-8, there were 18 mentions about NRCA or its members in various media sources. Pieces included a USA Today mention of NRCA's tireless efforts regarding immigration reform; discussion in EHS Today, a magazine focused on environmental safety and health, about NRCA's efforts to combat the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's pending silica rule; and a profile in the Wisconsin State Journal about NRCA board member Dave Tilsen, president of Tilsen Roofing Co., Madison, Wis.

As part of NRCA's broader communications and public relations plan, the association will begin to heavily promote to homeowners and building owners the benefits of working with professional NRCA member contractors and the good work they do. To help us in this effort, I encourage you to let us know about any charitable work you have performed during the past year.

And consider applying for the CNA/NRCA Community Involvement Award; the deadline is Dec. 31. One winning contractor will win $5,000 for his or her charity, and two runners-up will receive $1,000 each for their charities. More information is available at www.nrca.net/roofing/CNA-NRCA-Community-Involvement-Award-722.

NRCA and its members have a great story to tell. And beginning in 2014, we will be working even harder to make the story heard.

Ambika Puniani Bailey is editor of Profes­sional Roofing and NRCA's associate executive director of communications and production.