How to Plan a PSA for Public Media: A Guide for Nonprofits

Do you have an event, service, or vital information to share with Vermont residents in our service area? Public Service Announcements (PSAs) and Video Announcements are a simple, impactful way for nonprofit organizations and community-focused groups to raise awareness, educate the public, and inspire action. Whether you’re promoting an upcoming event or sharing important information, a PSA or video press release can amplify your message and connect with a larger audience. Explore our short how-to guide for planning and filming an effective PSA at GNAT TV’s studio in Sunderland, Vermont.

1. Define Your Message

A PSA is most effective when it shares an easy-to-understand call to action. Start by pinpointing the key message you want to share: What do you hope people will know, feel, or do after watching your PSA? Keep your message focused and clear so it resonates with your target audience. Having a strong, clear call to action will make a bigger impact.

2. Know Your Audience

Tailor your PSA to fit the needs, interests, and behaviors of your target audience. Are you reaching out to community members, event attendees, volunteers, or specific demographic groups? Understanding who you’re addressing will help set the tone, visuals, and content of your PSA.

Video Press Releases and PSAs produced with GNAT TV reach community members in our service area, which consists of 11 towns in Southwest Vermont: Arlington, Dorset, Londonderry, Manchester, Peru, Rupert, Sandgate, Stratton, Sunderland, Weston, and Winhall.

3. Plan the Visuals and Script

The visuals in your PSA should enhance and support your message. Whether it’s a member of your organization speaking to the camera, heartwarming footage of community members, or engaging text on screen, every visual element should add value. Write a script that conveys your message in about 30 to 60 seconds—the ideal length for a PSA. Ensure the script is clear, direct, and evokes the emotions you want to inspire.

Example Video Announcement Script

One method of scripting a PSA is to start by addressing your target audience, highlighting a specific need or interest, and providing a solution for your viewers. For example, GNAT TV wants to reach Southern Vermont nonprofits, schools, and other organizations trying to share important information to tell them that Video Announcement Day is a free, easy way to share public service announcements.

This example script helps plan and visualize the announcement:

[Opening Scene: A shot of the GNAT TV studio with a person typing on a laptop, looking overwhelmed.]
Narrator (walking into shot, using a friendly, welcoming tone): Are you a nonprofit looking to spread the word about your upcoming events, reach new members, or share important news with your community?
[Person on laptop looks up at the camera and nods.]
Narrator: GNAT TV is here to help! We’re excited to announce our Video Announcement Day—a special opportunity for local nonprofits like yours to get the word out with a professional, high-quality video announcement!
[Person on laptop looks relieved, smiles.]
Narrator: On Video Announcement Day, we’ll work with you to create a short video that highlights your event, mission, or news. It’s the perfect way to connect with your community and amplify your message!
[Person on laptop stands and speaks directly into the camera, as if making an announcement.]
Person (speaking directly to camera, excited): Join us for our annual fundraiser to support local youth programs! Together, we can make a difference!
[Person stops talking, narrator steps forward.]
Narrator: Video is a powerful way to engage your audience, and it’s easier than ever with GNAT TV! Don’t miss your chance to reach GNAT TV viewers with a FREE video announcement.
[Text on screen: “Video Announcement Day – Sign up today!”]
Narrator: Sign up today! Visit gnat-tv.org for more details and to reserve your spot.
[Closing shot of the GNAT TV logo and contact info on screen.]
Narrator: Get your message out to the community by joining us on Video Announcement Day on the last Wednesday of every month at GNAT TV!
[Fade out.]

Remember: Your announcement doesn’t have to be dramatized as our example shows. You can simply state the facts and important details if that suits your message. That said, we do want this to be a fun experience for all involved, so feel free to get creative.

4. Collaborate with Professionals

GNAT TV, like many public media stations, is here to support nonprofits. Our producers can help you create a high-quality PSA. Talented videographers, sound engineers, and editors can give your PSA that polished, impactful edge it deserves.

Our Video Announcement Days occur on the last Wednesday of each month, and we’re happy to schedule PSAs outside of those days to accommodate your needs. Schedule via Calendly or email us at community@gnat-tv.org to schedule your Video Announcement recording time!

5. Measure Success

Once your Video Announcement is live, assess its effectiveness by tracking community engagement, media coverage, and any actions like donations or event attendance. Community response will help you understand how your message has impacted others and guide your future PSAs.

A well-crafted PSA can be a game-changer for your nonprofit or community organization. Use your voice in public media: By keeping your message clear, understanding your audience, and partnering with a video producer like GNAT TV, your Video Announcement will inform viewers and inspire action. 

Ready to create your PSA? Reserve a Video Announcement Day time slot, or reach out to GNAT TV today to explore the fantastic resources available for nonprofits!