Press Releases

This page will have links to press releases for GFWC Massachusetts events.  These press releases will be in Microsoft Word format so that members can personalize them for their clubs.  

​Also, included below are GFWC's guidelines for press releases and a sample press release to be personalized by your Communications and Public Relations Chairman for your club events.
GFWC Guidelines for Press Releases
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Develop a news angle or hook to pique the media’s attention and increase the changes for media
coverage.
Consider the following:
  • Is this article relevant beyond GFWC?
  • What is the impact (i.e., dollars raised, people served, lives affected, community improvement)?
  • Why is this story significant?
  • Is it unique or unusual?
  • Does it make people’s lives easier?
  • Major achievements (i.e., significant anniversary, recognition from a program partner or legislative
  • body)
  • Is there a human interest angle?

Include these basic elements in every press release:
  • GFWC Unity in Diversity Emblem
  • FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: These words should appear in bold face type the upper right-hand margin, just under the GFWC Unity in Diversity emblem. You should capitalize every letter.
  • Contact Information: Designate one or two members as media liaisons or club spokespersons.
  • Include their names, telephone numbers, and e-mail addresses on the release. Be sure they are knowledgeable about the information contained in the press release as well as your Club, State Federation, and GFWC.
  • Headline: Skip two lines after your contact information and use a boldface type.
  • Dateline: This should be the city your club is located and the date the release is issued.
  • Lead Paragraph: The first paragraph needs to grasp the reader’s attention and should contain the relevant information to your message (who, what, when, where, why).
  • Text: The main body of your press release where your message should fully develop.
  • Add # # # at the end of the release in the center of the page. This conveys the release is finished.
  • Boiler Plate: The standard message that details GFWC’s purpose, mission, and history.
​The General Federation of Women’s Clubs is a unifying force, bringing together local women’s clubs, with members dedicated to strengthening their communities and enhancing the lives of others through volunteer service. With over 60,000 members in affiliated clubs in every state and more than a dozen countries, GFWC members are community leaders who work locally to create global change by supporting the arts, preserving natural resources, advancing education, promoting healthy lifestyles, encouraging civic involvement, and working toward world peace and understanding. For more information, including how to join or start a GFWC club in your area, go to www.GFWC.org or call 1-800-443-GFWC (4392). 
  • Include club’s address and website information, if applicable.

Proofread! Always proofread your work before sending the release. Whenever possible, have someone else review the document for spelling, grammar, and fact-checking,

Distribute your press release to local media. Most media outlets prefer to receive releases via e-mail, but it’s best to check with the journalist to determine his/her delivery preference.

Follow-up with your media contacts to ensure they received the press release and to determine if they have any follow-up questions.
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