Local broadcasters are always searching for ways to add rich, local content to the news stories and programs they produce. Local public health issues and stories offer great opportunities to partner with local radio and TV outlets.
News directors or producers, not program hosts, typically make programming decisions. Often, the best place to start is by contacting the news director. Here are a few partnering options:
Special events.
The goal of partnering with broadcasters is to extend the value of your outreach efforts and their programming. Approach a local TV or radio station about partnering to produce special events and programming around your public health issues and messages. Together, you might create news stories on public health issues in your community, and co-sponsor town hall forums, health fairs, and other outreach events.
Editorials.
Many radio stations, especially public radio stations, will reserve spots in their news schedules for community comments on pressing issues. Call the news directors of local stations that reach your audiences and request an opportunity to provide editorial comment. Focus on local public health issues.
PSAs.
Public service announcements (PSAs) raise awareness of topics important to viewers and listeners through funny, emotional, or compelling 30- to 90-second commercials. Contact your local TV or radio stations about creating a PSA for your campaign. In some cases, stations will actually help you produce the piece. (See template PSAs).
Expert guests.
Drive-time radio broadcasters and morning and evening TV news programs always need local experts who can speak to important local issues. Because public health affects everyone, and that broad appeal is attractive to news producers and hosts, contact program producers and reporters and let them know you have experts who are ready to contribute and appear on their radio and TV news show.
