After the Election, Let’s Uplift Local Journalism
(Crystal A. Proxmire, Nov. 6, 2019)
Oakland County, MI – Local elections are a way for people to get involved in the democratic process and to put their support behind those who represent their values and interests. There is a lot of fundraising, communication, and teamwork that goes into this very important time. And soon all that buzz of activity will end.
But the hard work and the passion continue year round here at Oakland County Times as we strive to inform, inspire, and unite readers with quality local news coverage.
I am now asking everyone who understands the value of local elections to consider sharing some of their time and efforts in helping make Oakland County Times an even better resource for the community. We are a nonpartisan publication and we welcome everyone to get involved no matter your political leanings, group affiliations, title, position, etc.
Here are ways you can help:
Take on a Task. I have an entire list of things to do” when I have time.” Let’s knock some of those things off the to do list together! Most of the tasks are computer based, like doing research, compiling lists, contacting people for information, setting up excel files etc. In the coming weeks I will be posting about specific needs and you can set the amount of time that is right for you. You can do a one-time project, or volunteer a couple hours a month for something ongoing. Whatever works for you!
Help Your City Be a Focus City. Our long term goal is to provide quality news coverage for every community in Oakland County. Currently we have two Focus Cities – Ferndale and Holly. If we have a min. of 10 business or group sponsors, we can made a community a Focus City which will get the highest level of journalism we can give. Not only do focus cities get more news coverage, they also are on the forefront of the website, with their names and stories being shared frequently with people throughout the region. Helping us 
acquire new sponsors does not guarantee any kind of specific stories or special treatment with how we cover a community. But having the min. number of sponsors will get the city prominence on the website. If you want to take the lead in organizing support in your city, please reach out for more details.
Get Your Steps In. Did you enjoy knocking on doors for candidates? Or just want to have a good excuse to get out and walk? Delivering fliers for Oakland County Times is a great way to do good for local journalism and for yourself.
Write. We currently don’t have the funds to hire more freelance writers. Historically we have declined having interns or volunteers because of a belief that people should be paid for their work. However, in the interest of having more communities and stories become part of this site, we will accept volunteer submissions and ideas. Guests are welcome to write about community events, nonprofit groups, school events, and feel good pieces. You may also submit poetry and short stories. We are not accepting business profiles or opinion pieces. Please contact us with your idea before investing the time to write it, to make sure it’s a good fit.
Earn a commission by helping us get sponsors. We need people to reach out to small businesses, groups, larger corporations, applying for grants, rallying up reader support efforts, and for specific asks such as finding a car dealership sponsor, a sponsor for closed captioning, pitching to restaurants, or pitching tourism ad plans. There is a variety of options so you can pick a niche that works for you. Even a few hours a week can make a huge difference. If money isn’t a motivator, you are welcome to decline your commission or donate it to a cause you care about.
Make a one-time gift or set up a monthly pledge. The Oakland County Times is funded by advertising sponsors and reader support. You can make a one-time payment or set up a monthly payment of any amount. Those over $15 will get a thank you message on our website.