National Adopt-a-Greyhound Month began in 2009 as an effort to raise awareness for Greyhound adoption throughout the United States. To launch this initiative, The Greyhound Project committed significant dollars to the placement and production of several public service announcements that put a humorous and endearing spin on greyhound adoption.

In April 2010, The Greyhound Project will continue its efforts to promote National Adopt-a-Greyhound Month. What can you and your local groups and organizations do?  The following is a list of ideas and resources:

• Distribute PSAs to local media outlets. Do you know someone who works at a local television station? If so, mention to them that April is National Adopt-a-Greyhound Month and ask them if they will air one of the PSAs. To obtain information about ordering copies of a PSA, contact Melissa Cook.

• Distribute press releases to local newspaper outlets. Newspapers are always looking for local interest stories. By sending a press release with a local interest twist, you increase your chances of the story making the publication. Other ideas include coffee shops and cafes, bookstores, and opening day for local baseball teams.
Tips for talking to the media
Sample press release

• Get out and walk. Nothing is better for building awareness for Greyhounds than getting them out and walking them in public. Whether you do it alone or with a group, you are sure to draw attention. Build awareness for Greyhound adoption by walking for another cause. These walks are often covered by the local media, and a group of Greyhounds is sure to get their attention.

• Education. Approach your local schools, libraries, or scouting organizations to set up opportunities for teaching and learning.

By making a donation to The Greyhound Project PSA Fund, you will be providing funds that will allow the Project to purchase much needed commercial time so that more people become aware of Greyhound adoption. —Melissa Cook

This article is excerpted from the Spring 2010 Celebrating Greyhounds magazine.  Subscribe by April 30, 2010, to receive the complete issue.