Sample Drop-In Article

Drop-in articles are different from other types of publicity or outreach in that they are written to bring attention to your project and attract volunteers or organizational partners. They are called "drop-in articles" because they can be placed in small community newspapers, newsletters, or other print publication at any time – an advantage especially for small publications that often find they need copy for an issue and will use your article as "filler."

National organizations can use drop-in articles in the publications they send to their affiliates, in newsletters, and on their Web sites. If you are working in a main office of your organization, solicit drop-in articles about the success of their neighboring project from your affiliates for these uses. If you are an affiliate, remember to circulate your stories to the national or regional offices to spread the word and offer best practices that you've discovered.

The tone of a drop-in article should have a warmer feeling and immediacy. You are writing to encourage people to join your effort. Pepper the article with quotes from local people involved in the story. You will be more likely to succeed at attracting volunteers and partners the more positive your program and spokespeople sound.

Keep the article short – between 250 and 500 words – and offer the best photographs you have when you submit the article. Write captions on labels that you attach to the back of the photographs, including the correct spelling of names for the people featured. Adapt the following article by replacing information on the Springfield project with names and details about your own neighboring activities.

Read a sample drop-in article .

Media attention can increase your project's profile in the community and attract volunteers, but real sustainability will come from building strong partnerships within your neighborhood and community. Read a sample of a letter you can use as a basis for reaching out to businesses and other potential partners.