It's often necessary to use economical methods of generating publicity for an organization, event, or activity. Here are some tried and true methods. Be sure to make a note of other ways to generate publicity by talking with colleagues and professionals!

• Join (or create your own) speaker's bureau. "Invite" yourself to speak at meetings that are your target audience, like the Chambers of Commerce.



• Write letters to other community organizations. Don't be shy about establishing a relationship and a rapport with the decision maker(s) and ask to make a presentation.



• Do you belong to a church group? Ask to get meeting information and other bits of data in the church bulletin, if applicable. Invite members of your church to attend a meeting, program, or special event.



• Use the local library. Ask if the library will distribute materials throughout the system. If bulletin boards or information centers are available, seek their use.



• Utilize cablevision. Submit event or program information to the "crawl message" center of the cablevision station. You won't have control of the airing of the message, but people DO watch for upcoming community events. Don't forget to see if there are cablevision programs that seek guests to discuss a number of topics.



• Grocery bags and fast food restaurant tray liners are great ways to spread your message. This could take a long time to coordinate and arrange, especially if you want the owners to print the message at their expense. Key: plan ahead!



• Transit signs on public transit vehicles can get your message out all over the community. There may be a cost for printing the signs, but try to negotiate free space.



• Public broadcast radio stations always need volunteers to take pledges during fund raising drives. Gather your Citizenship Team and other volunteers, sign up for a shift, and get on-air credit for your community service. Tip: Get t-shirts, hats, etc., with your organization name imprinted - everyone will know who you are!



• Billboard space may be donated for a period of time. You may have to pay for the printing of the message, and you won't have the flexibility to negotiate timing.



• Distribute bookmarks everywhere! This inexpensive item can go a long way in "passing the word" either about your organization or special event/program.



• Local radio programs often seek newsworthy events and newsmakers. Contact the radio program producer for more information - it's free!



• Utility bill inserts are effective in publicizing numerous community events. Often, these entities will print and distribute your message for free. Tip: This endeavor takes planning ahead with the coordination of many company departments.



• Newsletters and Websites are prolific in this age of technology and fast distribution. Make sure that companies and organizations are included on your networking lists. You might even want to create your own Website.