The Power Of A Press Release

A fundraising press release can be a powerful, free marketing tool that can gain your organization big exposure.

The purpose of a fundraising press release is to alert appropriate media that a fundraising event is upcoming. Often, local newspapers and TV stations will include the information on a community services page. This is a key way to let your community know that a fundraising campaign is ongoing, and how they can support your organization.

In addition to advertisement, press releases are meant to intrigue the local media and gain coverage of your event. This helps your community learn about your group, its function and needs, and is especially helpful if the event is continuing or a second fundraiser will be held of which the writer can make mention.

The problem with press releases is that media do not always have space or time available to cover every fundraising event that is submitted to them. You can improve your chances for coverage by writing a good press release for your fundraiser.

Writing A Fundraising Press Release

• Print the release on company or organization letterhead


• Include contact information at the top of the page—organization name, address, phone number, and email


• Center the words PRESS RELEASE, in bold caps, at the top of the page


• Below, include the name and contact number for the press release contact person


• Include a release date, or the words IMMEDIATE RELEASE in capital letters above the title of the release


• Write a title in bold caps


• Write the body of the press release—remember, short and to the point, and leave some interest factor, but include the essentials (who, what, when, where, why); begin the body with the city/town and date of the event; create a 'call to action' within the release to let supporters know their action is needed, and appeal to their sense of responsibility


• Write a second paragraph elaborating (briefly) on the first, and add a human interest factor for supporters and media personnel (to grab their interest)


• End the release by paragraph three; summarize the release, and include organization contact information here. Signal the end of the release with three 'pound' signs (###) centered below the last line

This is an article created by the FundraisingIP.com Editorial Team. For more fundraising ideas and fundraiser help, go to our article directory at FundraisingIP.com/articles.