Media Relations Policy

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Effective Date: November 12, 2023
Last Updated: March 20, 2026

1. Purpose and Commitment

Mentor Me Now Foundation recognizes media relations as an essential component of public awareness, community engagement, and mission advancement. This policy establishes guidelines to ensure that all media interactions are conducted professionally, accurately, and in a manner that protects the organization’s reputation, participants, and stakeholders.

The Foundation is committed to transparent, responsible, and ethical communication with journalists, media outlets, and the public.

2. Scope of Policy

This policy applies to:

• Employees and contractors
• Volunteers and mentors
• Members of the Board of Directors
• Program facilitators and partners
• Any individual representing or affiliated with the Foundation in a public or media-facing capacity

3. Designated Spokesperson and Media Contacts

Mentor Me Now Foundation shall designate an official spokesperson or authorized communications representative responsible for managing all media relations.

All employees, volunteers, contractors, and partners must:

• Direct media inquiries, interview requests, and press communications to the designated spokesperson
• Refrain from making public statements or commitments on behalf of the organization without prior authorization
• Avoid sharing internal information, strategic plans, or participant details with media representatives

This centralized approach ensures consistency, accuracy, and protection of organizational interests.

4. Press Releases and Public Announcements

The Foundation may issue press releases to communicate significant milestones, program launches, partnerships, events, funding announcements, or community impact updates.

All press communications must:

• Be reviewed and approved by authorized leadership or communications personnel
• Present factual, transparent, and mission-aligned information
• Reflect consistent branding and messaging standards

5. Media Interviews and Public Appearances

Requests for interviews, public commentary, or expert perspectives will be evaluated based on relevance to the Foundation’s mission, availability of leadership, and potential impact.

Authorized representatives participating in media engagements must:

• Provide accurate and responsible information
• Avoid speculation or commitments beyond approved messaging
• Maintain professional conduct and confidentiality

No individual may agree to participate in media interviews on behalf of the Foundation without prior approval.

6. Social Media and Media Engagement

Mentor Me Now Foundation recognizes that media engagement may occur through digital and social media platforms.

The organization will:

• Monitor relevant media mentions and public discourse
• Respond appropriately and professionally when necessary
• Ensure that confidential or sensitive information is not disclosed

Employees, volunteers, and partners must not share internal communications, participant information, or organizational decisions through personal or public social media channels.

7. Crisis Communication

The Foundation shall maintain crisis communication procedures to manage situations that may affect its reputation, operations, or participant safety.

During a crisis:

• The designated spokesperson will serve as the primary point of contact for all media inquiries
• Public statements will be coordinated, timely, and fact-based
• Staff, volunteers, and partners must refrain from independent communication with media regarding the situation

This coordinated response helps ensure clarity, consistency, and responsible messaging.

8. Enforcement and Accountability

Failure to comply with this Media Relations Policy may result in corrective or disciplinary action, including:

• Revocation of media communication privileges
• Suspension or termination of volunteer or employment relationships
• Review or termination of partnerships or contractual agreements
• Additional action as appropriate under organizational policies

9. Policy Review

This policy shall be reviewed periodically to ensure alignment with evolving media practices, legal requirements, and organizational growth.

10. Conclusion

Mentor Me Now Foundation values strategic and responsible media engagement as a means of strengthening community awareness and advancing its mission. By maintaining clear communication protocols and protecting confidential information, the organization ensures that its public messaging remains accurate, ethical, and aligned with its commitment to serving communities with integrity.

Approved By:
Dr. LaTonya Miller
Executive Director
Mentor Me Now Foundation