Why We Use Roadside Information Signs to Connect With Our Communities

At Sunshine Community Health Center, our mission is simple and steadfast: to keep our communities informed, supported, and connected to the care they need. In a rural region as unique and spread out as ours, communication isn’t one-size-fits-all. People receive information in many different ways—and our goal is to meet community members wherever they are.

Recently, we’ve heard questions and concerns about the rotating information signs and wanted to take a moment to share why these signs exist and how they serve our community.

Reaching People in Many Ways Matters

• Not everyone checks social media.

• Not everyone listens to local radio.

• Not everyone visits the website or comes into the clinic regularly.

That’s why Sunshine CHC uses a variety of communication tools—our website, printed materials, community flyers, radio updates, social media, digital eBoards inside our clinics, and yes, our roadside information signs at both clinic locations.

Each of these plays a role in helping important information reach as many people as possible. For some, a quick roadside message may be the only reminder they get that week—whether it’s to schedule a dental cleaning, attend a community event, or learn about a seasonal health resource.

Why Roadside Signs Are Valuable in Rural Alaska

In a region where residents spend significant time on the road, these signs serve as practical touchpoints for sharing:

• Appointment opportunities

• Program updates

• Community events

• Seasonal health information

• Preventive care reminders

• Local resources

A brief glance can make a meaningful difference in someone’s access to care.

We Also Want to Be Good Neighbors

We understand that community members may have different feelings about digital signage, especially in rural areas that value dark skies and natural landscapes. That’s why we’ve taken intentional steps to ensure our signs remain as unobtrusive as possible.

The digital display is small, built directly into our existing clinic signage—not an added billboard or standalone structure—and we keep the messaging simple, slow-paced, and relevant. Our goal is to share helpful information without compromising the character of the area. We will continue to use the sign thoughtfully so it supports, rather than distracts from, the community we serve.

Your Feedback Helps Shape Our Communication

We appreciate when community members reach out with questions or concerns. Input from the community helps us ensure our communication tools are useful, respectful, and aligned with the needs of the people we serve. We will continue evaluating all of our outreach methods—including our signage—to ensure they provide value and support community connection.

Thank you,

Centro Comunitario de Salud Sunshine

1-907-376-2273 (ATENCIÓN)

www.sunshineclinic.org

*Este artículo ha sido escrito con el apoyo de AI*.