3.1 Tools of Engagement

The Destination McDowell project was initiated and introduced to the public using innovative multimedia techniques. A three-minute promotional video narrated by community leaders featuring tourism and recreation highlights was included on a Destination McDowell project website. This video showcased scenery from throughout the county and provided a “call to action” to citizens to participate in the community survey.

A project Fact Sheet about the Destination McDowell Tourism Master Plan was developed to further inform community members and stakeholders (see Appendix A, page 156). Talking points on the fact sheet included: 1) plan goals; 2) the role and function of the McDowell County Tourism Development Authority and a description of the plan’s purpose; and 3) an outline of the planning process.

A community survey was also linked on the project webpage to gather public input. See key survey findings on page 48.