Autism Speaks U Media & Press Packet

Autism Speaks U Media & Press Packet Tips, Talking Points & Press Release Templates Introduction and Tips for Sending a Press Release.... 2-3 Items to Consider When Contacting the Press & Things to Consider... 4 Autism Speaks U Talking Points........ 5 Autism & Autism Speaks Talking Points.... 6 Autism Speaks U Event Press Release Template.......... 7-8 Autism Speaks U Chapter Launch Press Release Template...... 9-10

Introduction Are you looking for media attention and to create buzz around your Autism Speaks U events and chapter? Use this packet to promote your efforts and to get recognition in local print and online media outlets. This guide contains tips for sending press releases, talking points about autism and our organization and press release templates that you can easily plug your information into. Don t forget to check out our media and press release tips video from the 19 Action News meteorologist from CBS Cleveland. He offers great suggestions on how to prepare press releases and the best practices to follow when interviewing! Visit http://www.vimeo.com/16717174. Tips for Sending a Press Release Make your story appealing. It needs an edge! Come up with a story angle that a journalist could use to write an article about. Decide what makes your story newsworthy. Are you the first autism student-run organization on campus? Have you secured local talent or a well known speaker for your event? Build your own media list. Compile a media list of publications and media sources (newspapers, journals, radio shows, and news programs) that are most likely to write a story like yours. Collect all of their information - company name, address, phone and email - as well as the contact person. It s all about timing. Articles to reference on how to build a media list http://www.ehow.com/how_2191469_create-media-list.html http://blog.journalistics.com/2009/free-resources-for-building-media-lists/ Avoid sending a press release over the holidays and on the weekends. Midweek is generally considered the best time to send a release. Don t send attachments. Do not send journalists your release as an attachment. Send it as part of the actual email. Attachments are often ignored due to virus concerns. Additionally, do not send the release as a pdf, as it is impossible for most editors to use a pdf release without retyping it. Make it simple for journalists to contact you. Include complete contact information in your release. Making a journalist hunt for your phone number or email can only result in frustration. If you re writing about an event, include the event details (what it is, where, when, contact information, key speakers, etc.). Page 2 of 10

Follow-up and then follow-up again! Follow up after your initial contact and make sure to notify the reporter of your event well in advance. Give at least two weeks notice to a daily or weekly newspaper or broadcast station and allow up to three months for coverage in long-lead publications such as magazines. If you follow-up via email and you still don t hear from the reporter, try calling to speak with the reporter directly. Get included in event calendars. Don t forget to contact local newspapers and radio stations to have your event included in their event listings both online and in print. This is usually a free service too! Utilize FREE online distribution sources & social media sites. a. Press Release Point http://www.pressreleasepoint.com Submit press releases to 50+ Free PR Websites. b. Pitch Engine http://www.pitchengine.com Build a social media press release for free! Pitch Engine makes it easy for others to follow your news or share it online. The social media press release you create effectively packages stories for sharing (with editors, bloggers, donors, sponsors, etc.) c. Use your existing marketing channels Announce your news to your social media networks (Facebook, Twitter, Flickr, etc.). Post it to your page and make it relevant to the community you are addressing. d. Connect with journalists using Twitter and Facebook Social Media platforms like Twitter remove the barriers that once prevented the average person from connecting with media professionals. Visit http://twitteringjournalists.pbworks.com/. This site is dedicated to journalists on Twitter and is organized by geographic location. e. Reach out to bloggers Bloggers are a powerful force in the media. Offer them a special promotion for their readers if they can help you get the word out about your news (i.e. buy one get one half off event tickets, two bake sale cookies for the price of one). Don t discount blogs - they can help you get noticed by mainstream media. Page 3 of 10

Items to Consider When Contacting the Press Be polite and respectful of their time. Recognize that these people are busy too. Make it easy and simple to contact to you and whatever it is you're pitching them. Give them time and space to breathe (send out releases with enough time in advance). Learn the names of the reporters who cover the features most significant to you. Make it personal. Don't mass email them. Let them know why you chose to send them the information based on what you've read. Things to Keep in Mind. Autism is a neurological disorder that impairs an individual s ability to communicate, form relationships with others, and relate to their surroundings. Autism can also be called a developmental disability. Please refrain from describing autism as a disease. You can refer to page 4 for talking points on autism. It is critical that people know that Autism Speaks U is connected to our national organization and is part of Autism Speaks. Please be sure to use the full name (Autism Speaks U) instead of abbreviations like AS or ASU. Autism Speaks U has the same mission as Autism Speaks in that we are dedicated to funding research into the causes, prevention and treatments for autism. The Autism Speaks name, brand, logo and colors are critical to our long term success! Please utilize these assets as presented by Autism Speaks and keep the Autism Speaks U logo in its original state. For example, when using the Autism Speaks U logo it should look exactly how it appears on Autism Speaks U site (www.autismspeaks.org/u). Email Autism Speaks all materials or merchandise that use the Autism Speaks U logo for approval signature by Autism Speaks prior to production. Page 4 of 10

Autism Speaks U Talking Points Whether promoting an event, hosting a panel on autism or simply answering questions about your involvement with Autism Speaks U, here are some helpful pointers to go by. We re here today to raise awareness about autism, and to raise money to support scientific research into the causes of autism and better treatments. To get involved with Autism Speaks U and to organize an event, visit. One in 88 children including 1 in every 54 boys is now diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder; it s the nation s fastest-growing developmental disorder. Autism is a brain disorder that inhibits a person s ability to communicate and develop social relationships, and is often accompanied by behavioral challenges. We re expecting (HOW MANY) attendees at this event and to raise more than (HOW MUCH). Today is a tremendous success, and in addition to the (HOW MANY) people who attended the event, we thank the many volunteers who worked so hard to make all of this happen. This event is a wonderful opportunity for students and families to join together, as well as our campus, community and local businesses to have fun and support those affected by autism. In addition to your participation today, you can support our efforts by visiting and making a donation to one of our remarkable student leaders. Launched in 2008, Autism Speaks U is an innovative and collaborative program for college students who want to raise funds and awareness for Autism Speaks, while supporting their local autism communities. Autism Speaks U events benefit the work of Autism Speaks, North America s largest autism science and advocacy organization. Since its inaugural event at Penn State University in 2006, Autism Speaks U events have raised over $1 million and student-organized Walk Now for Autism Speaks teams have brought in millions more. Autism Speaks U events and chapters exist at colleges and universities across the country, including, but not limited to: Penn State University, Duke University, University of Michigan, Ohio State University, University of Connecticut, Northwestern University, University of California, Berkeley, University of Maryland West Virginia University and the University of Massachusetts Amherst. Page 5 of 10

Autism & Autism Speaks Talking Points About Autism Autism is a neurological disorder that impairs an individual s ability to communicate, form relationships with others, and relate to their surroundings. 1 in 88 children in the United States is diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder. 1 in 54 boys is on the autism spectrum. A new case is diagnosed every 11 minutes. More children will be diagnosed with autism this year than with AIDS, diabetes & cancer combined. Autism is the fastest-growing serious developmental disability in the U.S. Autism costs the nation over $126 billion per year, a figure expected to significantly increase in the next decade. Autism receives less than 5% of the research funding of many less prevalent childhood diseases. Boys are four times more likely than girls to have autism. There is no medical detection or cure for autism. About Autism Speaks Founded in February 2005 by Bob and Suzanne Wright after their grandson was diagnosed. Autism Speaks is dedicated to funding global biomedical research into the causes, prevention and treatments for autism; to raising public awareness about autism and its effects on individuals, families, and society; and to bringing hope to all who deal with the hardships of this disorder. Autism Speaks aims to bring the autism community together as one strong voice to urge the government and private sector to listen to the concerns and take action to address this urgent global health crisis. What does Autism Speaks do for my community? Autism Speaks is committed to helping families with the day-to-day challenges of living with autism by providing through Family Services. Family Services Community Grants from $10,000 - $20,000 for local service providers to apply visit www.autismspeaks.org nearly $1.5 million has been distributed to local communities. 100 Day Kit available in English and Spanish - a valuable tool for parents of newly diagnosed children. The kit provides critical information about where to find services and other help. It helps to make the first few months after diagnosis a little less overwhelming. This kit is available at no cost to the parent, it s free. Autism Video Glossary first-of-its-kind web-based video glossary to help parents and professionals learn more about the early warning signs of autism. The glossary, available to the public free of charge at www.autismspeaks.org or www.firstsigns.org contains over hundred video clips that illustrate both typical and atypical development side-by-side. Family Services Resource Guide online database provides individuals and families with listings of important local resources. The guide includes healthcare professionals, therapists, adult services, recreational programs and even autism-friendly places to get a haircut. Page 6 of 10

From: AUTISM SPEAKS U [COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY NAME] [CONTACT NAME AND INFO HERE] DRAFT/ (FILL OUT FIELDS IN RED) [COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY NAME] STUDENTS TO HOST AUTISM SPEAKS U EVENT TO RAISE AWARENESS AND FUNDS FOR AUTISM ADVOCACY AND RESEARCH ON [DATE] [CITY] [DATE] [COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY NAME] students will host an Autism Speaks U [TYPE OF EVENT] to raise awareness and funds to support the work of Autism Speaks, North America s largest autism science and advocacy organization, on [DATE AND TIME] at [LOCATION]. Autism Speaks U () engages college students across the country in autism awareness, advocacy and fundraising efforts. [ADDITIONAL EVENT INFO HERE DETAILS, CONTACT INFO, HOW TO GET INVOLVED, ETC.] Launched in 2008, Autism Speaks U is an innovative and collaborative program for college students who want to raise funds and awareness for Autism Speaks, while supporting their local autism communities. Student-organized events take place both on and off campus and range from hosting a 5K run to organizing a benefit concert, to organizing a panel discussion about autism. While many of the students involved with Autism Speaks U have a personal connection to autism, others not directly affected have also joined the program to support the cause. Since its inaugural event at Penn State University in 2006, Autism Speaks U events have raised over $1 million and student-organized Walk Now for Autism Speaks teams have brought in millions more. Since creating Autism Speaks U s first event at Penn State University, we remain committed to leading college students nationwide in the fight against autism, said Adam Dorfman and Andrew Moses, co-founders of Autism Speaks U. Autism Speaks U events and chapters exist at colleges and universities across the country, including: Penn State University, University of California, Berkeley, Cornell University, University of Michigan, Ohio State University, University of Connecticut, Duke University, University of Maryland and the University of Massachusetts Amherst. College students, faculty and alumni can get involved with Autism Speaks U by visiting. About Autism Autism is a complex neurobiological disorder that inhibits a person's ability to communicate and develop social relationships, and is often accompanied by behavioral challenges. Autism spectrum disorders are diagnosed in 1 in 88 children in the United States, affecting four times Page 7 of 10

as many boys as girls. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have called autism a national public health crisis whose cause and cure remain unknown. About Autism Speaks Autism Speaks is North America s largest autism science and advocacy organization. Since its inception in 2005, Autism Speaks has made enormous strides, committing over $173 million to research and developing innovative new resources for families. The organization is dedicated to funding research into the causes, prevention, treatments and a cure for autism; increasing awareness of autism spectrum disorders; and advocating for the needs of individuals with autism and their families. In addition to funding research, Autism Speaks also supports the Autism Treatment Network, Autism Genetic Resource Exchange and several other scientific and clinical programs. Notable awareness initiatives include the establishment of the annual United Nations-sanctioned World Autism Awareness Day on April 2 and an award-winning Learn the Signs campaign with the Ad Council which has received over $249 million in donated media. Autism Speaks family resources include the Autism Video Glossary, a 100 Day Kit for newly-diagnosed families, a School Community Tool Kit and a community grant program. Autism Speaks has played a critical role in securing federal legislation to advance the government s response to autism, and has successfully advocated for insurance reform to cover behavioral treatments. Each year Walk Now for Autism Speaks events are held in more than 80 cities across North America. To learn more about Autism Speaks, please visit www.autismspeaks.org. About Autism Speaks Co-Founders Autism Speaks was founded in February 2005 by Suzanne and Bob Wright, the grandparents of a child with autism. Bob Wright is Senior Advisor at Lee Equity Partners, Chairman and CEO of the Palm Beach Civic Association and served as vice chairman, General Electric, and chief executive officer of NBC and NBC Universal for more than twenty years. He also serves on the boards of the Polo Ralph Lauren Corporation, RAND Corporation and the New York Presbyterian Hospital. Suzanne Wright has an extensive history of active involvement in community and philanthropic endeavors, mostly directed toward helping children. She serves on the boards of several non-profit organizations and is also Trustee Emeritus of Sarah Lawrence College, her alma mater. Suzanne has received numerous awards such as the CHILD Magazine Children s Champions Award, Luella Bennack Volunteer Award, Spirit of Achievement award by the Albert Einstein College of Medicine's National Women s Division and the Weizmann Institute of Science. In 2008, the Wrights were named to the Time 100 list of the most influential people in the world for their commitment to global autism advocacy. # # # From: AUTISM SPEAKS U [COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY NAME] Page 8 of 10

[CONTACT NAME AND INFO HERE] DRAFT/ (FILL OUT FIELDS IN RED) [COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY NAME] STUDENTS LAUNCH AUTISM SPEAKS U CHAPTER TO RAISE AWARENESS AND FUNDS FOR AUTISM ADVOCACY AND RESEARCH [CITY] [DATE] [COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY NAME] students have established an Autism Speaks U chapter to support the work of Autism Speaks, North America s largest autism science and advocacy organization. Autism Speaks U () is a program designed to support college students in their awareness, advocacy and fundraising efforts [ADDITIONAL INFO HERE DETAILS ABOUT CHAPTER S CO-FOUNDERS, UPCOMING EVENTS, HOW TO GET INVOLVED, CONTACT INFO, ETC.] SUGGESTED QUOTE: We are excited to bring Autism Speaks U to [COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY NAME] s community and hope students will get involved in our efforts to make not only our campus, but the broader community, more aware of what autism is, how it affects people and how we can all make a difference for those affected by autism, said [X], co-founder of the Autism Speaks U [COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY NAME] chapter. Autism is now diagnosed in 1 in every 88 children. That s a staggering number, and it also means that if you don t know someone with autism already, you will soon. It s time for all of us to get involved. Launched in 2008, Autism Speaks U is an innovative and collaborative program for college students who want to raise funds and awareness for Autism Speaks, while supporting their local autism communities. Student-organized events take place both on and off campus and range from hosting a 5K run to organizing a benefit concert, to organizing a panel discussion about autism. While many of the students involved with Autism Speaks U have a personal connection to autism, others not directly affected have also joined the program to support the cause. Since its inaugural event at Penn State University in 2006, Autism Speaks U events have raised over $1 million and student-organized Walk Now for Autism Speaks teams have brought in millions more. Since creating Autism Speaks U s first event at Penn State University, we remain committed to leading college students nationwide in the fight against autism, said Adam Dorfman and Andrew Moses, co-founders of Autism Speaks U. Autism Speaks U events and chapters exist at colleges and universities across the country, including: Penn State University, University of California, Berkeley, Cornell University, University of Michigan, Ohio State University, University of Connecticut, Duke University, University of Maryland and the University of Massachusetts Amherst. College students, faculty and alumni can get involved with Autism Speaks U by visiting. Page 9 of 10

About Autism Autism is a complex neurobiological disorder that inhibits a person's ability to communicate and develop social relationships, and is often accompanied by behavioral challenges. Autism spectrum disorders are diagnosed in 1 in 88 children in the United States, affecting four times as many boys as girls. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have called autism a national public health crisis whose cause and cure remain unknown. About Autism Speaks Autism Speaks is North America s largest autism science and advocacy organization. Since its inception in 2005, Autism Speaks has made enormous strides, committing over $173 million to research and developing innovative new resources for families. The organization is dedicated to funding research into the causes, prevention, treatments and a cure for autism; increasing awareness of autism spectrum disorders; and advocating for the needs of individuals with autism and their families. In addition to funding research, Autism Speaks also supports the Autism Treatment Network, Autism Genetic Resource Exchange and several other scientific and clinical programs. Notable awareness initiatives include the establishment of the annual United Nations-sanctioned World Autism Awareness Day on April 2 and an award-winning Learn the Signs campaign with the Ad Council which has received over $249 million in donated media. Autism Speaks family resources include the Autism Video Glossary, a 100 Day Kit for newly-diagnosed families, a School Community Tool Kit and a community grant program. Autism Speaks has played a critical role in securing federal legislation to advance the government s response to autism, and has successfully advocated for insurance reform to cover behavioral treatments. Each year Walk Now for Autism Speaks events are held in more than 80 cities across North America. To learn more about Autism Speaks, please visit www.autismspeaks.org. About Autism Speaks Co-Founders Autism Speaks was founded in February 2005 by Suzanne and Bob Wright, the grandparents of a child with autism. Bob Wright is Senior Advisor at Lee Equity Partners, Chairman and CEO of the Palm Beach Civic Association and served as vice chairman, General Electric, and chief executive officer of NBC and NBC Universal for more than twenty years. He also serves on the boards of the Polo Ralph Lauren Corporation, RAND Corporation and the New York Presbyterian Hospital. Suzanne Wright has an extensive history of active involvement in community and philanthropic endeavors, mostly directed toward helping children. She serves on the boards of several non-profit organizations and is also Trustee Emeritus of Sarah Lawrence College, her alma mater. Suzanne has received numerous awards such as the CHILD Magazine Children s Champions Award, Luella Bennack Volunteer Award, Spirit of Achievement award by the Albert Einstein College of Medicine's National Women s Division and the Weizmann Institute of Science. In 2008, the Wrights were named to the Time 100 list of the most influential people in the world for their commitment to global autism advocacy. # # # Page 10 of 10