Getting Creative: Video Blogs, and Ads

When trying to get the word out about STANDFast, it’s important to explore non-traditional forms of media. Click U (link to creative media section of activism 101) for basic info on creative media.

Ads

Want more media attention? Pay for it! Think about taking out an ad in your local or campus newspaper, radio, or blog. Many campus media outlets have special rates for student groups, and a paid advertisement can be an effective way to get information out to large numbers of people to fast for civilians in Darfur and Burma.

Step 1: Look up prices. Call or email the advertising supervisors at local and campus papers and radio stations. Make sure you tell them about STANDFast, and see what deals they can offer. Get quotes for different sizes and different lengths. In the case of radio, see if you can use the station’s recording equipment.

Step 2: Talk it over. Decide with other members of your chapter if doing an ad would benefit you. Do you have sufficient funds for it? Does your student body pay attention to campus media?

Step 3: Design on a dime. If you decide to go for it, the next step is to design or write the ad. Have the most creative members of your chapter work on developing the ad – write a script for radio, do a video for a blog, and design a print ad. Take advantage of art or broadcasting students; many of them love helping student groups because it helps them build their portfolios. Need help brainstorming? Contact your Regional Outreach Coordinator and the STAND Media Team.

Step 4: Submit. Send in your ad and follow-up. Make sure it goes out on time, and it looks/sounds how you want it to.

Videos

Many chapters make videos to get the word out about STANDFast, and you can too! Find out if your school rents or lends videorecording equipment, or just use a laptop with a webcam. Remember the most important thing about video is that it is attention-grabbing. Use strong language or visuals and get the word out about STANDFast on your campus and in your community.

Blogs

Many towns have local blogs that post information about upcoming events. If you’re having an event or series of events as part of your STANDFast, be sure to let area and campus blogs know! Find out which blogs are most popular for students on your campus, and try to get info up.

With bloggers, you don’t need to be formal with a media alert and press release. Just send a brief email and ask them if they want more info. As usual, remember to follow-up, and your STANDFast might start getting attention on the blogosphere.