RESOURCES AND TOOLS

• Talking Points Designed to help museum leadership and spokespeople speak confidently and clearly about the value of museums and the urgent need to protect IMLS and NEH funding.

• Relationship Building Templates Speak up and build lasting relationships with local, state, and federal leaders following the termination of IMLS and NEH funding and the impact on institutions and local communities.

• Board Briefing Template Give board members clear, actionable steps so they know exactly how to get involved and support your museum’s advocacy efforts.

• Texas Impact Stories of what grants have made possible and what we are now at risk of losing.

• Social Media Templates Use these posts to start conversations, build deeper trust, and mobilize support when it matters most.

• Traditional Press Templates Share your story with the local press.

• Relationship Building Templates A starting place for museums to speak up for their value and build lasting relationships.

• How to Connect with Local Government Learn more about the who, how, and why of connecting with local government and community organizations.

• How to Use Data to Show Impact Sharing simple, relevant data demonstrates transparency, accountability, and a commitment to community goals.

• How to Talk About Collections Access Strategies you can use to articulate why access to collections matters, backed by data and impactful narratives

• Communicate your goals. Tell your recipient not only what you do but why you do it. Help them understand what specific support you’re looking for. 

• Localize everything, but connect to the broader picture. Customize each communication with your museum’s voice and examples, ensuring that you also include an understanding that your museum is part of the broader ecosystem of education, culture, and economic development. When your supporters speak up, they’re helping protect a vital piece of the community fabric.

• Be timely. Send communication when there are relevant opportunities for government or community engagement.

• Don’t make promises you cannot keep. Over deliver rather than over promise. Ensure that relationships are two-way—ask for help and thank for support.

• Collaborate with other museums. If you are part of a museum association or coalition, work together on a coordinated effort. The greater the number of institutions involved, the louder your collective voice will be and the more consistent the intended message.

Important: Only designated representatives authorized to speak on behalf of the museum should use these materials for external outreach. Internal alignment on who represents your institution ensures credibility and consistency.