Public Relations: Press Releases

Overview

Local press coverage of Scouting events builds community awareness and can support recruitment. The Public Relations Coordinator is responsible for submitting press releases or announcements to local outlets for major pack events.

Events Worth a Press Release

Pinewood Derby — Great local interest; photos of Scout racing cars are popular with local press
Blue & Gold Banquet — Especially if a notable guest speaker or community service component
Arrow of Light Crossover — Milestone for graduating Scouts
Service Projects — Community-focused; strong human interest angle
Pack milestone (e.g., charter anniversary, significant achievement)
Recruitment events — “Cub Scouting is open to all kids in your area” is a useful public message

Local Press Outlets

(Update with current local press contacts — examples:)

your town Spotlight / Spotlight News
Times Union (community section)
Nextdoor (your local neighborhood)
your pack meeting location school newsletter or PTA communications

Writing a Press Release

Keep it short and factual. A good press release includes:

Headline: Clear, active (e.g., “the pack Cub Scouts Host Annual Pinewood Derby at your pack meeting location”)
Lead paragraph: Who, What, When, Where, Why — answer all five in the first paragraph
Body: 1–2 additional paragraphs with details, quotes from a leader or Scout (with permission)
Contact: Public Relations Coordinator name and pack email for follow-up
Boilerplate: Brief description of the pack and Cub Scouting

Length: 200–400 words for a standard press release; shorter for a community calendar submission.

School Communications

Coordinate with Membership Chair on getting messages into your pack meeting location’s school newsletter or communications home to families. This is often more effective than press releases for recruitment.

Resources

docs/Training/Positions/Marketing - Public Relations Chair/Marketing _ Public Relations Chair Guide.md