How to Write Letters to the Editor
A letter to the editor is an easy and effective way to get your community foundation’s message to a wide group of newspaper readers, whatever their specific interests. Many community foundation or fund leaders write occasional letters to the editor, but few do it in a planned and strategic way. Make it an integral part of your plan.Check your newspaper for its policy on letters to the editor (usually found on the same page on which the letters are printed). Make sure you follow the paper’s rules and remember that newspapers reserve the right to edit for length and clarity. Make your letter concise and to the point, focusing on one or two important points.
Who writes the letters? Usually, it’s the board chair who signs the letters, but it’s important to have a variety of letter writers. Your board members, donors, grantees, professional advisors, partners in a project — all are great resources. A brief, positive letter about their experiences with the community foundation or fund can be a real plus.