Working With the Media

Your local library is likely to have extensive reference resources to help you develop or enhance a directory of broadcast, print, and web-based media for your jurisdiction. In addition, you can find general and specialized media according to region and state at: http://dir.yahoo.com/News_and_Media/By_Region/.

The NCVRW letterhead should be utilized to print all correspondence with the news media. You can add a list of co-sponsoring organizations or partners in eight-point type on the left side of the letterhead.

SAMPLE PRESS RELEASE

Once victim service providers and allied professionals have completed their plans to commemorate 2004 NCVRW, it is helpful to send a general press release to local print, broadcast, and web-based media highlighting key activities they will sponsor. The sample press release, which includes a national perspective, an explanation
of the theme, and a quotation from the Director of the Office for Victims of Crime, can be easily personalized to state and local jurisdictions.

SAMPLE BROADCAST PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENTS

One of the best ways to promote victims’ rights and services is through the broadcasting of public service announcements (PSAs). The three sample broadcast PSAs included in this Guide can be utilized for either radio or television stations. Each PSA should be personalized to include contact information for local victim services. Any relevant data that will localize the PSA by accurately reflecting crime and victimization in the area in which the PSAs are broadcast should be added prior to dissemination. Victim advocates should contact local radio and television stations at least six weeks prior to NCVRW and ask to speak to the public service director. The director can provide guidelines about whether the station accepts PSAs and the preferred format. While some stations simply accept PSA scripts that are read by on-air personalities, others ask that the scripts be read by a representative from the organization that submits them. Be sure to understand and follow any guidelines that radio and television stations provide.

SAMPLE OPINION/EDITORIAL COLUMN

Opinion/editorial columns can describe the effect of crime and victimization on individuals and communities, and help people in your jurisdiction understand the range of rights and services available to assist victims. The sample opinion/editorial column should be personalized and expanded to reflect information pertinent to the community in which it will be published, such as current crime statistics, personal victims’ vignettes, information about victims’ rights and services, and shared values relevant to victim assistance in your community. The column can also be edited and submitted to local radio and television stations as an actuality, which is a 60-second statement of opinion that is usually read on air by the author. Victim service providers should consider submitting the opinion/editorial column or actuality from a local NCVRW Planning Committee or coalition.