Media Toolkit

Media outlets are always on the hunt for interesting stories that impact or are relatable to their audience. Understanding a media outlet’s key audience helps inform the subject matter and angle of your news pitch.

How do I get my story in the news?

Hosting an event? Send out a media advisory via email or call news desks with the who, what, when, where, how info. Favourable times for media to attend are late mornings or early afternoons. 

Cameras love to capture great visuals and people in action. Share what top 2-3 key visuals or photo opportunities are at your event.

Have a strong human-interest angle – make your story relatable and compelling, You don’t need to have an event to get your story in the news.

White it’s possible to successfully pitch a story within less than 24-hours notice, aim to contact media a week or two in advance.

Identify who will speak to the writer or TV reporter. Offer at least two people for different perspectives.

Media is interested! What do I do next?

  • If you are hosting an event, aim to let your guests know that media will be coming. Understand that not everyone may consent to being captured on camera.

  • There is no harm in asking for the interview questions in advance to prepare.

  • If you are not comfortable having a newspaper reporter or TV camera in your home, suggest a public space that has a connection to you or your story.

  • Feel free to ask when the story is scheduled for publication or for the air date of your story – you won’t want to miss it!

  • Share the good news with the Holland Bloorview Capes for Kids team! Send an e-mail to capesforkids@hollandbloorview.ca with your media advisory or story details.

Where do I start?