Washington - Jan 14, 2010 - The National Association of Broadcasters today announced a voluntary nationwide initiative aimed at boosting relief efforts in response to the devastating earthquake in Haiti.

As part of the initiative, the NAB is working closely with the American Red Cross and the Ad Council to distribute critical earthquake relief information. Television and radio PSAs featuring First Lady Michelle Obama will be available for download on the NAB's dedicated public service website, NABSpotCenter.org, on Friday, Jan.15. TV stations can also obtain the PSAs through a special NAB satellite feed on Tuesday, Jan. 19. Specific satellite coordinates will be provided in a communication to stations shortly.

The NAB is asking stations to use on-air talent to produce localized public service announcements (PSAs) boosting Haitian relief efforts.

The NAB also announced that Monday, Feb. 1 will be designated as "Broadcasters for Haiti Day." The NAB is urging radio and TV stations to "roadblock" specific times of day, dedicating airtime to fundraising relief efforts, telephone banks, radiothons and telethons.

"The cruel reality of this week's disaster demonstrates a desperate need for amplified relief efforts, and the outpouring of assistance from America's radio and TV stations is already underway," said NAB President and CEO Gordon Smith. "Broadcasters are uniquely positioned to mobilize the masses, and working with our disaster relief partners, we can help ease the suffering of our Haitian neighbors. We urge all stations to participate in 'Broadcasters for Haiti Day.'"