Visit Local Organizations Involved in Supporting Education

• Some organizations that you may consider visiting are the Kiwanis Club, the PTA, and the Rotary Club. Others include teachers unions, local business organizations, chambers of commerce, civic groups, and volunteer agencies.
  
  
• Make a list of goals--what do you want to accomplish by speaking to this organization?
  
  
• Solicit co-presenters. Don’t be afraid to ask for help from people you know! Fellow teachers, community members, community and/or book groups, librarians, and students are a good place to start.
  
  
• Contact the person in charge of the organization in advance and ask if you can have a few minutes to address their members at their next meeting. Tell them why their membership should hear what you have to say.
  
  
• Find out what the organization's special interests are and tailor your presentation to connect with the audience.
  
  
• Speak from your own experience and use examples to illustrate your points.
  
  
• Use facts to add credibility to your presentation.
  
  
• Leave information behind so that people know how to contact you.