The Cotillion: Introducing Philanthropy to Society

Pamela Pressley
The Cotillion Founder and Publisher

When it comes to getting publicity, nonprofit organizations typically enjoy a great advantage -- the media loves a good cause. In fact, the publisher of one online publication, The Cotillion,, has made the coverage of charitable causes her own mission. Any non-profit, individual or other business actively engaged in the community can be featured on the site. 


I initially spoke with The Cotillion founder and publisher Pamela Pressley in the summer of 2010, when I interviewed her for a profile that appeared on Young Black Professional Guide. Pressley explained the art of "solanthropy" -- giving back to the community through social events.


Pressley recently gave an update on how the the site is doing: The Cotillion has doubled in size since last summer and Pressley is considering ways to use the latest technology to interact with readers, she said. Based in Washington, D.C., the site now also covers charitable happenings in Houston, Chicago, Atlanta and New York.


"I want people to know that we are a motivator and supporter to the non-profit community and we celebrate those who make it point to [do so]," Pressley said. "We generally support those who have a focus on volunteerism, civic engagement, philanthropy and other types of new age charitable giving."

Pressley is planning the site's inaugural Young & Philanthropic Gala this year "that will celebrate those who are leading the way for the next generation of charitable givers," she said. 

Email tips, press releases and event coverage requests to The Cotillion at contactus@thecotilliononline.com. 

Bridgette Outten is a journalist and media consultant with The Write Vision Group, Inc.  Her background is in print journalism and she has written hundreds of articles for newspapers and online publications. At The Write Vision Group, Bridgette consults with nonprofits and small businesses about how they can get media attention for their programs and efforts. Meanwhile, she blogs on all things journalism.