community relations program

Definition: (DOD) That command function which evaluates public attitudes, identifies the mission of a military organization with the public interest, and executes a program of action to earn public understanding and acceptance. Community relations programs are conducted at all levels of command, both in the United States and overseas, by military organizations having a community relations area of responsibility. Community relations programs include, but are not limited to, such activities as liaison and cooperation with associations and organizations and their local affiliates at all levels; armed forces participation in international, national, regional, state, and local public events; installation open houses and tours; embarkations in naval ships; orientation tours for distinguished civilians; people-to-people and humanitarian acts; cooperation with government officials and community leaders; and encouragement of armed forces personnel and their dependents to participate in activities of local schools, churches, fraternal, social, and civic organizations, sports, and recreation programs, and other aspects of community life to the extent feasible and appropriate, regardless of where they are located.