Working with the Media: Telling Your Nonprofit's Story
A Toolkit for Tennessee Nonprofits
Tennessee nonprofits operate in a rapidly changing communications environment defined by declining public trust, regional skepticism, and a fast-moving media landscape. However, research shows that with the right strategies and messengers, you can cut through the noise to reach your audience effectively.
This toolkit provides the knowledge and tools to engage with the news media strategically. Move beyond reactive responses to learn how to proactively pitch stories, build long-term reporter relationships, and connect their mission to proven messaging pillars that resonate with Tennessee audiences.
Click the links below to view and download.
A quick reference guide for every stage of a media interview.
This handout includes two scenarios. Each scenario is divided into two roles, spokesperson and reporter.
Participant A will play the role of spokesperson first, while Participant B acts as the reporter first. In the second
scenario, the roles will reverse.
COMMUNICATIONS GUIDE from National Council of Nonprofits
Trust in nonprofits is being undermined by leaders at the highest levels of our government,
threatening the critical work that nonprofits do in communities across the country. This guide is
intended to help our community tell the value story of the nonprofit community, before it is defined
by others.
Use this guide when developing stories for media pitches, donor communications, social media, or other public awareness activities.
Use this list to identify the right outlet and primary contact for media pitches in each region of Tennessee. Each tab covers one region. Outlets are sorted by type: TV first, then Radio, Print, and Digital. Start with the outlet type most relevant to your story (e.g., TV for visual stories; Digital for fast turnaround; Print for in-depth coverage).
Looking for the presentation? If you attended one of the trainings and are looking for the presentation slides, please send your request via e-mail to training@tnnonprofits.org
Be sure to include which event you attended - date and location - and the slides will be emailed to you.