When you send letters to the editor or press releases to media, be sure to send copies to your administrators and elected officials. Provide them with fact sheets and add them to your mailing lists for special event notices and newsletters. Share success stories with them. Contact community organizations and ask to be a speaker at their meetings. Use the sample speech or develop one of your own.
Many organizations schedule speakers well in advance, so call or write early.
Possibilities include the PTA, Rotary, AARP or Junior League. Post advocacy messages on your Internet home page. Encourage response by e-mail, then be sure to keep in touch with those people and enlist their support. Inform your staff, trustees and volunteers about your efforts. Enlist them in spreading your campaign message to their friends, neighbors, church and community groups.