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

Nonprofit Voter Engagement Network

2314 University Ave W. Suite 20

St. Paul, MN 55114

651-757-3086