Andrew Jackson was probably the first United States president to realize the value of having a press agent in the White House. He used his friend Amos Kendall, a former newspaperman, as his ghostwriter and publicist. In the 20th century a presidential press secretary has been an integral part of most administrations. Congress of the United States Public affairs management is used by elected officials, government agencies, and companies to relate them directly to their constituencies or to a community. Congressmen, for example, hold meetings in their home districts to listen to problems and complaints of the voters.
Corporations support the budgets of cultural events and public television broadcasting.
Companies donate money to improve their home communities. Some businesses provide summer jobs for teenagers. Colleges and universities sponsor community events such as lectures, concerts, and plays. Fund-raising is a less obvious form of public relations, but it is a very useful one. Colleges, universities, hospitals, religious and fraternal organizations, and other associations take part in fund-raising activities.