CANDIDATE FORUM CHECKLIST

BEFORE THE EVENT

4 MONTHS:

• Collaborate with other local nonprofits
• Set date, time, and place for the forum
• Decide on a forum format
• Develop a forum budget and stick to it

3 MONTHS:

• Send invitations to candidates
• Make preliminary media contact

2 MONTHS:

• Begin volunteer recruitment
• Select a moderator
• Follow up on candidate invites
• Develop a strategy for turnout

1 MONTH:

• Final confirmation of candidates
• Reconfirm site arrangements
• Reconfirm volunteers
• Distribute promotional
• Contact media again to promote coverage
• Reconfirm volunteers

LESS THAN 1 MONTH:

• Continue to recruit attendees
• Contact volunteers to confirm their duties at the forum
• Final media reminders and press release
• Write op-ed piece
• Select a timekeeper

ON THE BIG DAY:

• Complete set-up at forum
• Have staff or volunteers greet people
• Set up the head table
• Welcome and thank-yous
• Review ground rules for forum
• Make time for informal Q&A after the forum
•  

AFTER THE EVENT

• Send thank-you letters
• Encourage/monitor news stories
• Write letters to editor or op-ed piece

Available for download on www.nonprofitvote.org