Seize the Day is posted once a week, one month or more in advance of each event. |
| December 7 |
Protect against fires in December |
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 What: Elementary school children usually learn about fire safety, burn prevention, and how to call 911. But did you know that a national nonprofit is behind these efforts to encourage emergency preparedness? Fire departments across the nation educate children through programs developed by the National Fire Safety Council, which celebrates its 30th anniversary on Dec. 7.
Background: The National Fire Safety Council was founded in 1979 as a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting fire safety. With the help of cartoon Dalmatian FirePup, the Council develops teaching tools ranging from brochures to posters that are distributed exclusively through local fire departments.
Story Pitch: Retailers and organizations can encourage fire safety by promoting safety products for the home, while technology companies can market the latest product in detecting carbon monoxide and other alarm equipment. The upcoming holidays provide a time to campaign for children’s safety as trees, lit candles, and decorations create fire hazards.
The Story Hook: FireSafety.gov reports that 4,000 people die in house fires each year. The U.S. Fire Administration reports that 400 of that number lose their lives during the holiday season. How many of those lives could be saved with education and emergency preparedness training? Consider the following when making your pitch:
- What are the safest ways to decorate for the holidays? What safety features are available for popular decorations?
- How do residential schools and college campuses encourage fire safety?
- What measures have fire departments taken to continue National Fire Safety Council and other fire safety programs, in light of financial cuts?
- Have fire safety lessons in schools expanded to include natural disaster preparedness or other safety tips?
Tips: When pitching a news medium, provide the contact information for a member of the fire department who has information about local education programs, or consult a retailer that advertises safety products. If possible, provide information about a family who takes fire safety seriously and has mapped an escape route in case a fire was to ever strike.
--Researched, compiled & written by Lisa Rowan
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| December 1-31 |
Give the gift of toy safety in December |
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 What: Anyone who has ever wished for a “gotta have it” Christmas gift can sympathize with Ralphie, who begged his parents for a BB gun during his 1940s childhood in the film A Christmas Story. After months of plotting and weathering exclamations of “You’ll shoot your eye out!” Ralphie finally unwraps his hard-won BB gun – and nearly shoots his eye out. Thankfully, today we arm parents and gift-givers with an arsenal of consumer information and rankings related to children’s safety. Take time to educate yourself on toy safety, age-appropriate gifts and responsible consumerism during Safe Toys and Gifts Month this December.
Background: Safe Toys and Gifts Month is sponsored by Prevent Blindness in America, a national volunteer eye health and safety organization. While the month originally focused on eye safety, other organizations and consumer protection groups regularly use the December gift-giving season to promote general toy safety.
Story Pitch: Consumer safety and advocacy organizations can pitch around this event, while schools and education associations, pediatricians and child care providers can also use the month to provide valuable information to parents and consumers.
The Story Hook: Toy-related injuries caused 220,500 children to visit emergency rooms in 2006, according to statistics collected by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. While recent mass recalls of children’s toys have raised consumer awareness, children’s products and toys accounted for nearly two-thirds of recalled products from 2007-08. Consider the following questions before making your pitch:
- To maintain a safe environment, Prevent Blindness in America recommends you promptly dispose of broken toys and keep younger children away from toys meant for their older siblings. How else can parents and caregivers contribute to safer play environments?
- Giving gift cards as presents allows parents to evaluate a toy’s safety and age-appropriateness and can take some of the pressure off the gift-giver. What other types of presents can be given as safer alternatives to toys?
- The national movement towards green living and sustainability has also affected children’s products. Where can consumers find information on safe, green toys?
- Children under four are the most likely to suffer injuries from toys. Choke tubes are an inexpensive way to test the safety of toys at home. What other products and resources exist to safeguard inquisitive toddlers at play?
Tips: When making your pitch, provide the name and information of a local retailer with a large selection of safe toys or a family concerned with toy safety.
--Researched, compiled & written by Marissa Maybee
Event Dates & History Today from CHASE’S Calendar of Events
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| December 2, 2009 |
Get informed about children with special needs in December |
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 What: Over 30 years ago, school systems lacked the tools to provide a proper education to many children with disabilities that ranged from Attention Deficit Disorder, autism and Asperger's Disorder, to brain trauma and speech impairment. In fact, the U.S. Department of Education reports that only 1 in 5 schools educated children with disabilities before 1975, and that some states even excluded some children with certain needs from the schools. Times have changed since then, but learning disorders are as prevalent as ever. On Dec. 2, honor the country’s progress while encouraging the further evolution of learning on Special Education Day.
Background: Special Education Day marks the anniversary of the United States’ first federal special education law. Passed in 1975, the Education for All Handicapped Children Act was later renamed to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) in 1990. According to the U.S. Department of Education, about 6.5 million children and youths receive special education and related services, while early intervention programs and services are provided to about 200,000 eligible children and their families because of IDEA. In addition, from 1987 to 2003, they reported that students with special needs completing high school had increased 17 percent.
Story Pitch: Special Education Day provides an opportunity for schools to promote efforts in developing special education programs, while community groups and hospitals can promote awareness. In addition, retailers can campaign educational products around this event.
The Story Hook: A high school in Michigan recently crowned a student with autism as homecoming queen because of her talent and character. When making your pitch, think about how students with disabilities are fitting into today’s educational landscape:
- How are schools making accommodations for children with special education needs taking state-mandated standardized tests?
- Has technology changed the way we connect to children with special needs?
- How does increasing medical knowledge about learning disabilities affect the development of special education programs?
- What special education programs are available for gifted children?
Tips: When pitching your story, provide relevant contacts, such as a doctor who specializes in special needs, a special-ed teacher or a student with special needs.
--Researched, compiled & written by Lisa Rowan
Event Dates & History Today from CHASE’S Calendar of Events
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| November 21, 2009 |
Volunteer together in November |
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 What: As the holiday season approaches, millions of Americans are in need of food, clothing and shelter. Service organizations are helping more people than ever before, but their need for volunteers is increasing. Join the volunteer revolution while spending time with family on Family Volunteer Day on Nov. 21.
Background: Sponsored by the Points of Light Institute and the Walt Disney Corporation, Family Volunteer Day aims to introduce families to the benefits of volunteering together while strengthening the communities in which they live. Family Volunteer Day is held annually on the Saturday before Thanksgiving and focuses on teaching children the values of kindness, compassion and community responsibility.
Story Pitch: Nonprofits, faith-based organizations and companies focused on community development can design and pitch service events on this day. Educational institutions can use this event to highlight their engagement with surrounding communities, while companies with innovative and flexible employee volunteer programs can also secure coverage.
The Story Hook: While charitable donations have decreased as a result of America’s economic straits, the number of volunteers has increased. According to The Corporation for National and Community Service, the number of Americans aged 16 to 24 who volunteer increased by nearly 500,000 from 2007 to 2008. How can we continue to promote a culture of family volunteerism? Consider the following facts before making your pitch:
- States with higher volunteer rates are more likely to have a lower incidence of heart disease as well as lower overall mortality rates. What other physical and mental health benefits could volunteering confer on individuals?
- Children who come from disadvantaged circumstances volunteer at lower rates than their more affluent peers. But those who do volunteer are 40 percent more likely to believe they can make a difference in their community. How are volunteer organizations in your community empowering this demographic?
- Volunteering can help strengthen family relationships, but it is also a bonding experience for sports teams, coworkers and classrooms. Which shelters and nonprofits in your area look for groups of volunteers? How can groups design their own volunteer opportunities?
- Communities contain a variety of volunteering opportunities. How can families personalize their volunteer experience?
Tips: Find a family or classroom that spearheaded a local volunteer project, or provide contact information for an area psychologist or mental health professional on the benefits of volunteering.
--Researched, compiled & written by Marissa Maybee
Event Dates & History Today from CHASE’S Calendar of Events
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| November 15, 2009 |
Keep America beautiful by recycling in November |
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 What: Many organizations, environmental groups, and municipalities encourage recycling efforts in the United States, but did you know that recycling has its own day on the calendar? On Nov. 15, America Recycles Day promotes a greener world by encouraging people to buy recycled products or to think twice before throwing that soda can in the garbage.
Background: America Recycles Day is a nationwide initiative that was founded by Keep America Beautiful Inc. and the National Recycling Coalition in 1997. The collaboration encourages local communities to recycle and educates them on the benefits of recycling.
Story Pitch: Now is the time to promote products that are recycled or have recycled packaging. Environmental awareness groups and retailers can campaign around this event, as well as towns, cities, or schools with healthy or burgeoning recycling programs.
The Story Hook: The Environmental Protection Agency reports that only 33 percent of Americans recycle their waste. How can we get more people to recycle? Consider the following when making your pitch:
- How easy is it to recycle? Is it harder in some states then others?
- According to Keep America Beautiful, recycling is one of the easiest ways to reduce climate change and global warming. What other ways can we benefit from recycling?
- What are some creative ways to reuse old bottles, books and records?
- How do return programs encourage communities to recycle?
- How can companies offer recycling programs for their products, either in-store or by mail?
- How has a surge in recycled products and materials changed the ways that buildings are constructed?
Tips: When pitching, provide the contact information for an avid environmentalist and an environmental expert. Find out how young people are living green through schools or scout troops.
--Researched, compiled & written by Lisa Rowan
Event Dates & History Today from CHASE’S Calendar of Events
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| November 1-30, 2009 |
November is open season for scholarship hunting |
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 What: A college education was once the golden ticket into lifelong economic security, but today most American families are struggling to cover skyrocketing college costs in a shaky economy. Even in this climate of need, a paradoxical $100 million in scholarship aid goes unclaimed each year. Raise awareness of private scholarships and other funding options during National Scholarship Month each November.
Background: Launched in 1998, National Scholarship Month was celebrated in May until 2008, when it was switched to November to coincide with the college scholarship application season. It is sponsored by the National Scholarship Providers Association (NSPA).
Story Pitch: Colleges and universities can use this month to pitch their financial aid statistics and scholarship programs. Private companies that award scholarships can highlight their efforts to increase access to higher education. Financial institutions that offer student loans or student debt management programs can also get in on the action by showcasing their innovative services.
The Story Hook: According to the National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities, tuition-and-fees increased at private colleges and universities by 4.3 percent from 2009 to 2010 – the lowest such increase since 1972 but still exceeding inflation for 2009-10. With costs also rising at state-sponsored institutions, many prospective students are bypassing their first choice schools and heading to the one that dishes up the meatiest financial aid package. Consider the following facts before making your pitch:
- What initiatives does your organization take to help its own employees cover college costs? Some examples include financial counseling, tuition reimbursement for continuing professional education, and scholarships and grants offered to employees and their relatives.
- A college graduate employed full-time pays 134 percent more in federal taxes than a typical high school graduate. Individuals with college degrees are also more likely to donate blood. How else does a society benefit from an increase in college graduates?
- Community colleges have taken center stage as retraining grounds for laid-off and nontraditional college students. Where can these students find assistance as they transition into academia? What financial obstacles might they face?
- As college applicants focus on getting into their top schools, many put financial considerations to the side. Awarded scholarships also affect financial aid eligibility, so even students taking a broad view of their future may not be able to predict how much their education will cost. What tools can young people use to predict and manage their college costs?
Tips: Add a human interest angle to this story by profiling a student who has won several local scholarships or interviewing families scrambling to save for college during the recession.
--Researched, compiled & written by Marissa Maybee
Event Dates & History Today from CHASE’S Calendar of Events
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| November 1-7, 2009 |
Recognizing animal shelters in November |
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 What: What would you do if you could no longer care for your beloved pet? After exhausting options with friends and family members, you might turn to an animal shelter for help. Beginning Nov. 1, the groups and organizations that provide refuge for pets and stray animals have a chance to shine during National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week, celebrated the first week of every November.
Background: Established by the Humane Society of the United States in 1996, National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week is a weeklong event that gives communities the chance to help spread animal welfare awareness and tip their hats at animal shelters, which care for our animal friends when no one else is able.
Story Pitch: This is an ideal time for shelters and animal welfare organizations to promote their services to local communities and highlight volunteer and funding needs. Discussing the fees and procedures associated with adopting shelter pets can also encourage individuals in the market for a furry companion.
The Story Hook: According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), 3.7 million homeless cats and dogs will be euthanized this year. Consider the following when making your pitch:
- How have animal shelters been affected by the recent economic dip? Has there been an increase in the volume of pets from families who can no longer afford to care for them?
- What organizations are celebrating the week by promoting pet health? Are shelters holding reduced-cost spay or neuter clinics or hosting presentations about pet care?
- How does pet fostering assist shelters in managing large numbers of adoptable pets?
- How is the internet changing the ways that we adopt pets? How do sites like Petfinder.com or PetHarbor.com help shelters find homes for stray or unwanted animals?
- Last week, pet food company Iams launched the Home 4 the Holidays campaign to help shelter pets find homes over the next three months. What are some other ways shelters are preparing for the busy holiday season with promotion and education efforts?
Tips: How are animal lovers pitching in at shelters? Volunteers are essential helpers in operating a shelter, so seek out a vocal supporter for more information on how community members are involved.
--Researched, compiled & written by Lisa Rowan
Event Dates & History Today from CHASE’S Calendar of Events
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| October 1-31, 2009 |
Raise awareness for celiac disease in October |
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 What: How would you cope if wheat, barley and rye were suddenly off limits to you? What dietary problems would arise in everyday situations — ordering pizza with friends, eating in your building’s cafeteria or grabbing drinks after work? The gluten-free dietary restrictions raised by celiac disease affect the lives of many Americans, and the health problems associated with undiagnosed celiac disease plague nearly 2 million more. During the month of October, raise awareness of this relatively new and often misdiagnosed autoimmune disease.
Background: Celiac disease is an autoimmune reaction to gluten which damages the small intestine and hinders the body’s ability to absorb nutrients from food. The disease was considered rare in the U.S. until a 2003 study revealed that 2 million Americans suffer from it, and an estimated 95 percent of these cases are undiagnosed. Since 1987, October has been celebrated as Celiac Disease Awareness Month.
Story Pitch: Colleges and universities can pitch their food service accommodations this month, as can any organization with a cafeteria that caters to special nutrition considerations like celiac disease. Companies in the hospitality, travel and dining industries can also highlight their commitment to meeting the dietary needs of their guests. Health care providers can get into the action by providing educational materials and resources to increase the public’s awareness of the disease and its management.
The Story Hook: According to the Celiac Sprue Foundation, celiac disease is the most prevalent genetic autoimmune disorder in the world, and it can cause chronic health problems like anemia, osteoporosis and infertility if left untreated. Consider the following questions before making your pitch:
- Researchers have discovered the disease is genetic, so people with celiac in their family have an increased risk of also suffering from the disease. Should a sister get tested if her brother is diagnosed with a disease? Should she be tested if her cousin is diagnosed?
- A recent New York Times article noted that gluten-free versions of foods like pizza and bread are almost three times as expensive as regular foods. What are some creative ways to follow a gluten-free diet without breaking the bank?
- How can wireless technology help those with celiac locate accommodating restaurants and hotels while they are traveling?
- Insurance plans in many European countries cover the nutritional counseling and alternative dietary needs that comprise the only known treatment for celiac disease, while most plans in the U.S. do not. What can employers do to make their workplaces and benefits more celiac-friendly?
Tips: Where do individuals with celiac disease encounter challenges in your community? Talk to a nutritionist from a local school district, parents of a celiac child or an adult recently diagnosed with the disease.
--Researched, compiled & written by Marissa Maybee
Event Dates & History Today from CHASE’S Calendar of Events
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| October 18-24, 2009 |
Read for the fun of it in October |
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 What: Despite the wealth of material available, it’s often a struggle inspiring teens to read for pleasure. In October, Teen Read Week, a national literacy initiative, encourages America’s youth to engage in reading as entertainment. This year’s theme, “Read beyond reality @ your library,” encourages teens to explore reading material that stretches the imagination during the week of Oct. 18-24.
Background: Launched in 1998, Teen Read Week is sponsored by the Young Adult Library Services Association, a division of the American Library Association. The event targets teens, parents, librarians, educators and booksellers, and had more than 5,000 schools and libraries participate in 2008. While it is held annually during the third week of October, many organizations will extend activities to span the entire month.
Story Pitch: Teen Read Week provides an opportunity to promote literacy programs, especially those aimed at teens and young adults. Booksellers and authors can also promote new young adult releases.
The Story Hook: The American Library Association cites reports from the National Assessment of Educational Progress that only modest achievements in reading have been made in the past 20 years. What can be done to combat this problem? Consider the following when making your pitch:
- What resources are available for young readers who may not have access to a library and cannot afford to buy new books?
- The American Library Association notes that few literacy programs are aimed at teens. How can literacy campaigns ensure that teens are included?
- How are teens and high school students faring on standardized tests? What are the current reading and verbal scores on the SAT? What efforts are being made in the classroom to improve reading performance?
- What are some popular reading sources for the plugged-in teen that spends a lot of time online?
- It’s easy for teens to follow the trend and delve into popular book series. What are ways for readers to discover great books that aren’t best-sellers?
Tips: Reading and education experts may be helpful in pitching an idea around Teen Read Week, but remember that the celebration encourages reading “for the fun of it.” Find out how teens are getting involved by contacting a young adult librarian or teen reading group.
--Researched, compiled & written by Lisa Rowan
Event Dates & History Today from CHASE’S Calendar of Events
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