A communications system for enabling communications between a prime user and members of a group. The system includes a first set of interlaces capable of communicating with the prime user via a first plurality of communication platforms using at least a first format and a second format; and a second set of interfaces capable of communicating with each of the members of the group via a second plurality of communication platforms using at least the first format and the second format. The system also includes a session manager coupled to the first set of interfaces having a plurality of routines configured to enable a prime user in communication with any one of the first set of interfaces to create a message to be transmitted to a selected group in either the first format or the second format; and a format converter capable of converting the message between the first and second formats. A communication controller is configured to obtain the message from the first database in both the first and second formats, obtain group member information regarding each member's contact preferences, and to initiate transmission of the message from the second set of interfaces to the selected group members using various, communication platforms based on the member's contact preferences.