Writing A Press Release

1
Writing A Press Release
2
What is a Press Release?

• A press release is a short document that provides
  information about your organizations events and
  activities to a newspaper, magazine, TV or radio
  station.

3
The Elements of a Press Release

• Letterhead

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE (or date of release)
Should be placed at the top of the news release
4
The Elements of a Press Release

• To Rhea Porter, Asheville Citizen-Times
• From Center for Participatory Change
• Contact Craig White, 828-299-9437
• Date April 20, 2003

5
The Elements of a Press Release

• Headline (Title)
• Total Health Fitness Grand Opening Celebration
  May 14

6
The Elements of a Press Release

• The body
• The first sentence is the lead
• The second sentence gives a factual summary of
  the article.

7
Writing the Press Release

• Provide a brief description of your organization
• Quotes from members, leaders, or other supporters

8
Writing the Press Release

• Write like a reporter--just the facts.
• Who
• What
• When
• Where
• Why

9
Writing the Press Release

• Use 3rd person -- she, they, the
  organization--not we, us, our organization.
• Keep it short 400 words or less. Use short
  paragraphs of only one or two sentences.

10
Writing the Press Release

• In the last paragraph, explain how people can
  contact you or get more information.
• Use more... to signify another page
• Use to signify end of press release