How to Write a Media Fact Sheet

A media fact sheet (also called a “backgrounder”) provides facts and figures not generally included in a press release.

The most common media fact sheet format is one to two paragraphs of informative background information about the organization, a bulleted list of facts about the organization and contact information for the organization. Media fact sheets are generally no more than two pages in length.

Like a press release, a media fact sheet can be tailored to complement a current event, an article idea an organization is sending to the press, an event held by or for the organization, a news story about the organization, etc.

The media fact sheet should include brief historical background about the organization and the facts included should be as recent and relevant as possible. Make sure to list the name of a media contact, and multiple ways to contact them, at the end of the release.

Media Fact Sheet Template

XYZ Dog and Cat Shelter

XYZ Dog and Cat Shelter is a non-profit, 501(c)3, tax-exempt organization that provides no-kill dog and cat shelter and placement in Minnesota. XYZ has been in operation since 1989 and has placed more than 12,000 pets into loving homes. XYZ relies exclusively on donations and volunteer foster homes and receives no government support.

XYZ works hard to match the right dogs and cats with the needs, lifestyles and personalities of potential adopters. The goal is to ensure a healthy, happy and permanent home for all XYZ animals. XYZ Shelter rescues dogs and cats of all breeds, sizes and ages. Whenever possible, XYZ obtains important information such as the animal’s personality, history, behavior and needs.

XYZ Dog and Cat Shelter At-a-Glance:

* Founded in 1989

* Since 1989, XYZ has placed more than 12,000 pets

    * 3,600 cats and kittens

    * 8,400 dogs and puppies

* 45% of dogs placed have been large-breed dogs (such as Labs and Golden Retrievers)

* 36% of dogs placed have been medium-breed dogs (such as Heelers and Beagles)

* 19% of dogs placed have been small-breed dogs (such as Miniature Poodles and Chihuahuas)

* 68% of dogs placed have been mixed-breed, 32% purebred

* Dogs are generally placed into new homes within two to four weeks of their arrival at XYZ Shelter.

* All dogs and cats are given veterinary care, spayed or neutered and treated with heartworm, flea and tick medication before they can be adopted.

* XYZ has one full-time staff member. The organization relies on volunteers for foster homes and animal transport.

* In 2007, XYZ spent more than $18,000 to treat heartworm in shelter dogs.

* In 2007, XYZ spent more than $70,000 on veterinary care. XYZ Shelter works with two local veterinarians who provide discounted care for the animals.

* In 2007, XYZ spent more than $40,000 on pet food and supplies for shelter animals.

* In 2007, XYZ had more than 40 volunteer foster homes.

* XYZ Shelter relies exclusively on donations to pay for veterinary care, medications, food, supplies and transportation.

* All donations to XYZ Shelter are tax-deductible to the fullest extent of the law.



XYZ Dog and Cat Shelter 1234 Main Street

Minneapolis, MN 12345

(123) 456-7890

Fax (123) 098-7654

Email info@XYZshelter.org

www.XYZshelter.org

Media Contact: Betty Smith



Courtesy of Lynne Stansvik, Social Visibility Consulting http://www.socialvisibilityconsulting.com/


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