The Toolkit

• The Work in Action Understand the cycle of work and see resources matched to the stage of the cycle you're on.

• Planning Framework Guidance to help you build your plan.

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

• How to Connect with Local Government and Community Organizations 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.

• Evaluation Tips Quick ideas to help you evaluate, adjust, and adapt your plan.

• Understanding Local Media Tips for working with media and responding to positive and negative news coverage.

These resources focus on the most immediate challenges museums are facing right now. Each hotspot includes tools like talking points, board briefings, impact stories, and templates for social media and traditional press to help you respond locally and share your story within the bigger picture across Texas.

• IMLS + NEH Funding

Why Continued Funding Matters  

Federal support strengthens local museums. These tools help you show what that investment makes possible in your community.

• Weather Events

Strengthening Preparedness and Resilience

From hurricanes to extreme heat, these resources help you prepare for and respond to weather events with confidence.

If you have a story related to the above hotspots, please share it in the record of impact. 

• Be clear. Tell your audience not only what you do but why you do it. Help them understand what specific support you’re looking for. 

• Be timely. Reach out when there’s a relevant moment for community or government engagement.

• Be real. Promise only what you can deliver, and focus on building two-way relationships. Ask for help, but also thank people for their support.

• Keep it local, but connect to the broader picture. Share stories from your own museum, but connect them to how museums across Texas strengthen communities. 

• Collaborate. Work with other museums or associations when possible. A coordinated effort is stronger and more consistent.

Important: Make sure only those designated to represent your museum use these materials for external outreach. Shared messaging builds credibility and trust.