Let's face it; most people are uncomfortable asking others for money. For some, the mere thought of it makes them squirm. What they may not realize, however, is many people want to give to nonprofits, but they don't. Why? They haven't been asked.

For any organization that has a message or a mission, a press release is one of its most effective and vital means of communication.

When the Center for Constitutional Rights, in New York, sought to get the word out about its Telephone Justice campaign, the group didn't follow the traditional public-relations route, instead they turned to the oldest communication method of all: the grapevine.

American donors are passionate and positive about the charities and non-profits they support, however they are concerned when these organizations market themselves in ways that mimic "big business."

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Industry, Natural Resources, Science and Technology (INDU) currently is finalizing legislation that would give the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) authority to implement and administer a federal Do-Not-Call List.

The Voluntary Sector Forum (VSF) now has two articles for publication in community papers. Have a read and consider asking your local community paper to include one in their next issue.