News offers information about activities or events that are of interest to, affect or involve the public, such as the dedication of a new Lions park. Some projects, although worthwhile, may not be “newsworthy.” To determine what is newsworthy, ask yourself, “Would a non-Lion find this interesting or useful?” Public service gives information about a specific topic to help or assist the public, such as describing the warning signs of diabetes or encouraging volunteerism.
Decide which activities are unique and may be of interest to the media. To be considered newsworthy, they should be about timely events or activities that:
Read local newspapers, watch television news programs and listen to a variety of local radio stations to get a feel for what is likely to be covered by your news media.
Get involved early in the planning of Lions projects to determine their PR potential. The following are examples of club activities with possible news value:
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The number of villages in Mali that received access to clean water as a result of a joint project involving Lions in Mali and France, with help from LCIF.
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