National Observances 2008
Experienced communications professionals know that it is virtually impossible to guarantee coverage of a specific story in any one publication. But if you conduct media outreach on a regular basis, chances are that your organization will receive some coverage. Many sponsors of national observances provide a wide range of materials to help do this, such as press releases, a sample letter to the editor, logo downloads, posters, a background and other items.

May 2008

National Volunteer Week
  • April 27-May 3, 2008 is National Volunteer Week, a time that celebrates volunteers and their importance in society. Ahead of the National Volunteer Week, Independent Sector announced that the estimated value of one volunteer hour in 2007 was $19.51. To read more about Independent Sector’s estimation, including figures that track the value since 1980 and state-by-state comparison, click here.

May Is Mental Health Month

  • Join the activities taking place all over the country this month in support of the mental health counseling profession. May 7, 2008 is the first annual Mental Health Awareness Day and National Mental Health Counseling Week is May 5-11, 2008. To get in on the activities, contact your state chapter, or contact AMHCA at 800-326-2642.

Below are links to sites that offer tips and materials to help raise community awareness for your organization, as well as the issue:

Other Web sites with comprehensive lists of national observances are:

Additional information:

Alliance for Children and Families: www.alliance1.org