Georgia state government has quietly amassed one of the broadest, most active digital presences of any state in the union. You can find a listing of Georgia agencies on Facebook (here) and on Twitter (here).
And, now, several of these agencies are leveraging social media and smartphone technology to both spur citizen engagement and provide better service. Here are a few examples:
4th of July in 4 Words
The Georgia Lottery Corporation is encouraging citizens to get creative and write down four words that describe what the 4th of July means to them. Then, they can film a short video and upload it here. The best submissions will win $500. The deadline is June 26 at 11:59 p.m.
(Must be logged into Facebook to view video)
Homegrown with a Twist
Georgia’s Department of Economic Development is touting its “Homegrown with a Twist” Summer Celebration to help commemorate the 40th anniversary of the Georgia Film, Music, and Digital Entertainment Office. As part of this effort, Explore Georgia has launched a fun-filled video contest with more than $3,500 in prizes, including a two-night stay in Madison, Ga. In three minutes or less, contestants must show “what Georgia means to you” and submit their videos by July 31. Or, you can book your own VIP package and tickets for the celebratory event on August 29.
The celebration also includes an all-inclusive VIP package with Southern Living and a movie screening at The Fox Theatre Atlanta on August 29, 2013. Watch winning “Homegrown with a Twist” video contest entries on the big screen, and enjoy a special screening of the Georgia-filmed movie, “Zombieland.”
Check In
The Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division is giving sportsmen another way to connect via the location-based social media network Foursquare. Millions of people are “checking in” on their mobile device through their Foursquare app to let their friends know where they are, what they’re doing and where they have been.
Users can unlock specials and deals by checking in, and can discover new locations through personalized recommendations based on check-in habits. Foursquare also allows users to post photos from their favorite spots and post tips and reviews for locations they visit.
Now, users can check in at DNR shooting ranges via Foursquare, gain access to specials and deals, post photos and leave tips and reviews for the ranges you visit — and all from your mobile device.
Be sure to follow “GA Public Shooting Ranges” on Foursquare and Twitter to stay updated on additional specials and events held at DNR ranges.
And while you’re on Foursquare, you might also check out some of the lists provided by Explore Georgia. These lists highlight everything from “fimled in Georgia” locations to some of the state’s best eats!
Stay Ready
The Ready Georgia mobile app, created by the Georgia Emergency Management Agency and the Georgia Department of Public Health, is an interactive tool that makes it easier than ever to be prepared for emergencies.
The app uses geo-location to deliver alerts, create emergency plans and show shelter locations. In addition to localized severe weather alerts, users will also receive alerts from GEMA and DPH in the event of other emergencies, such as terrorist attacks, infectious diseases or biological threats. See more here.
Hunt and Fish for Life
Georgians have a chance to win the right to hunt and fish for FREE for LIFE by entering a new contest sponsored by the Georgia Natural Resources Foundation. An adult license (for ages 16-64) and youth/infant license (15 and younger) will be given away. To enter:
- Like Wildlife Resources Division – GADNR on Facebook!
- Send the page a direct message on Facebook with your name, phone number, email address and mailing address. They’ll need this information to contact you when they announce the winners.
- Drawing for both the adult and youth license will be held on Labor Day, September 2, 2013.
Additional details can be found in the “Lifetime License Contest” tab on their fan page.
