Setting the stage for 2025: Your January communications calendar
DECEMBER 19, 2024
New year. New administration. New challenges. New opportunities.
As the roller coaster that was 2024 squeals to a halt, now’s the time to shift focus to the year ahead to consider fresh strategies, refine old ones, and set new goals for the year to come.
And as you begin planning for the year ahead, here are a few key dates to keep in mind when putting together your January content/PR calendar:
Jan. 1 – New Year’s Day
New Year’s Day is a great opportunity to engage your audience to learn what they resolve to do in the year ahead — or share a hopeful message about new beginnings.
Jan. 6 – National Technology Day
There’s more to January 6th than the memories of the attack on the Capitol. National Technology Day offers a good excuse to consider how to use new AI technologies effectively and ethically.
Learn more about why it’s important for your organization to set up an AI policy.
Jan. 8 – Anniversary of the War on Poverty
President Lyndon Johnson declared the War on Poverty during his 1964 State of the Union message before Congress. If some of your work includes anti-poverty initiatives, Jan. 8 offers a strong news hook to reflect on how far we have come –and how far there is left to go.
Jan. 13 – National Clean Off Your Desk Day
If you resolved to get more organized in 2025, National Clean Off Your Desk day offers the perfect motivator to clear off the clutter to improve productivity and calm the mind.
Jan. 16 – National Religious Freedom Day
This day marks passage of the Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom, the landmark legislation that ensured individuals have the right to practice their faith without government interference. This is a great opportunity for your organization to celebrate different religions and promote tolerance.
Jan. 18 – National Thesaurus Day
In the wake of the cultural, social, economic, and political shifts in our nation, it’s more important than ever to choose our words wisely. National Thesaurus Day is a chance to reflect on your organization’s messaging and make sure you are getting it across in the most effective way.
Learn more about the words and phrases that bring us together here.
Jan. 20 – Martin Luther King Jr Day
On the third Monday of January we honor Martin Luther King Jr.
Martin Luther King Jr Day not only offers a chance to celebrate and recognize the incredible impact Dr. King had on the Civil Rights Movement, but also highlight work your organization is doing to advance racial equity.
Jan. 20 – Inauguration
January 20 also marks the beginning of a new Presidential administration. Regardless of where your organization stands on the next occupant of the Oval Office, it’s more important than ever to hone in on the mission and values of your organization and focus on what you can do to continue making an impact.
Jan. 24 – National Compliment Day
You’re the best! Brighten up someone’s day by paying them a complement or giving credit for a job well done. This is a great way to express appreciation to your supporters, partners, volunteers and employees for all their hard work and dedication.
Jan. 27 – Holocaust Remembrance Day
Every year on January 27, we remember the millions of lives lost during Holocaust. This day serves as a reminder to honor the victims, reflect on the horrors of the Holocaust, and educate future generations about the dangers of hatred, racism, and intolerance.
Jan. 31 – Jackie Robinson's Birthday
Baseball legend Jackie Robinson — who broke Major League Baseball’s color barrier — was born on this day in 1919. His birthday offers a strong hook to recognize the trailblazers in your community and among your key stakeholders.
Jan. 31 – National Fun at Work Day
End the month off with a bang! National Fun at Work Day is the perfect opportunity to organize a fun get together for your employees and co-workers.
