Grand Openings and Center Events

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Center events and ceremonies can be colorful and positive opportunities to attract media coverage. They also provide an excellent opportunity for community outreach that builds connections with other community organizations, leaders, and politicians. Use our online resources to help create a sample news release. Read our media relations guide to learn more about how best to approach the media.

A good example of a successful event: the grand opening of the new Neighborhood Networks center at Berkshire Place Apartments in Nashville, Tennessee. More than 200 people attended the celebration, including representatives from the mayor's office, Small Business Administration officials, area residents, school and city officials, and others. Several staff members from the HUD Nashville Field Office also were in attendance.

Visitors toured the facility under construction, which will include a physician's and dental office, a conference room, a computer lab configured for up to 10 computers, three classrooms, and a multipurpose "family room." The highlight of the tour was the kitchen that will provide two different food-preparation certification classes, under the instruction of Dair Sutton (CEO of Family Affairs Ministry, which manages Berkshire Place). Mr. Sutton and the students will also prepare meals for a Kids Café program, Meals on Wheels, senior citizens center lunches, a breakfast program, and workshops and conferences sponsored by the ministry.

Neighborhood Networks can provide a targeted media list for your community or state, as well as grand opening certificates and banners to make your event more festive and memorable. For media relations assistance with your grand opening, contact us at (888) 312-2743.