BELLINGHAM, WA – May 22, 2008 – PIER Systems, Inc., leading provider of the first and only full spectrum on-demand communication management web-application, announced today that the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) and Health Research, Inc. (HRI) awarded PIER Systems a contract to conduct three workshops on psycho-social risk communications in New York State.

PIER Systems’ objective is to help organizations build and maintain trust with their stakeholders and was awarded the contract for their risk
communication credentials. The interactive workshops feature leading risk communication and disaster mental health experts Dr. Vincent Covello and Dr. Brian Flynn , who will draw from their extensive expertise in preparing public officials for the psychosocial aspects of large-scale emergencies and disasters.

According to PIER Systems’ CEO, Gerald Baron, “We are thrilled to be working with Dr. Vincent Covello and his Center for Risk Communication and Dr. Flynn, one of the nation’s leading disaster mental health experts and former Assistant Surgeon General.  The training will focus on the vital issue of communicating effectively with constituents during a pandemic, natural or manmade disaster, or any other major health related emergency in New York State.”

The workshops are intended for leaders of faith-based organizations who play a critical role in their communities, especially during crises.  In an
effort to better prepare leaders and their organizations, the workshops will emphasize how risk communication skills are indispensable to helping
community members cope in times of deep psychological trauma and will provide opportunities to practice these skills.  Each workshop will also
provide networking opportunities for those working in the faith-based and public health communities.

The free one-day workshops, sponsored by the New York State Department of Health, will be held on June 13th in Islandia, NY, June 26th in Poughkeepsie, NY and June 27th in Schenectady, NY.  Workshop participation is limited to approximately 50 attendees.

Faith-based organizations and health departments in these areas interested in sending a representative should contact:

Katie Schafer
PIER Systems, Inc.
360.746.0010
kschafer@piersystems.com

To learn more about PIER Systems, visit www.PIERSystems.com.