The purpose of the Media Tool Kit is to guide the NALAC Fund for the Arts (NFA) grantees through the process of creating and developing an effective relationship with the media and other news sources. We want to give you the tools to promote your work in the community as well as let others know about NALAC’s advocacy work on behalf of Latino arts and culture.

This kit will demonstrate how to acknowledge your NFA award, show you how to develop a media tool kit and assist you in being an arts advocate. 

If you have any questions about this guide, would like assistance in the final draft of your press release or questions on your advocacy letter, please feel free to contact  This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

Acknowledging and Promoting your 2009-2010 NFA Grant Award

Your NFA award letter advises you how to acknowledge your award. Please use this information as a guide when promoting your award, whether on your webpage, publicity materials for your event or acknowledgements during your event.  For more information about this requirement, see item #4 in the Terms of Agreement .

Logos of NALAC and foundations who support the NFA are available on this page.

Quotes from Maria De Leon, Executive Director of NALAC and Abel Lopez, Board Chair of NALAC are available for use in your press release.

Advocacy

As stated in your award letter, a requirement of the NFA grant is that you contact your local media outlet and your elected representatives to notify them of your NFA award.  Here is a link to learn a little more on why you want to inform public officials of your recent NFA award. A sample letter to notify elected congressional officials in your district is available. The contact information of your congressional representative was included in your award letter.  Please send NALAC a copy of the letter(s) to your elected officials.

Developing A Press Release

You will want to take time to develop a publicity strategy for your project. Here are some ideas on who to contact to announce your award and promote your project. These research tips may be helpful. Preparing this ahead of time makes it easier to promote your project effectively.

A press release is a valuable way of publicizing your event or announcing your NFA award. This link shares some techniques to keep in mind when preparing a release . A sample press release for an artist is made available for you to use. Additionally, a sample release for an organization is available.

NALAC’s press release announcing the 2008-2009 cycle can be obtained here . You may include this release on your webpage when you announce your award.

Talking about your Work

You can find a checklist for your media kit here . It is divided by artist and organization and should be used in preparing a packet to promote your project. Some key speaking points are also available for you to review prior to speaking to someone in the media. Additionally, there is information that may help when you  get a call back from the media .

The NFA grant manager is available via email to assist with any aspect of promoting your award and your project. Please email Elisa Gonzales at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it .