Before establishing a public relations program for disabled persons, it is essential to understand their needs and capabilities, involve these persons in the planning, know what state and community programs are available in the area, and define a fundamental purpose for the program. Knowing editors and writers at local newspapers, radio stations, and television stations and preparing honest, concise statements are basic to the effective use of such promotional devices as press releases, press conferences, media appearances, and speeches. Other public relations techniques that can assist a program for the disabled include the use of photograph displays, open houses, job fairs, media interviews of handicapped persons, book and author promotions, media job announcements for the handicapped, speaker bureaus, dedications of public buildings, community thank-you messages, meetings with officials from the community, public service announcements, and awards. Because the promotion of a public relations program requires competitive public service advertising, money sources or volunteer services must be solicited. Possible resources for donated publicity materials include local university art departments, private advertising or public relations firms, and public interest organizations. (MAI)