From IOA's Communications Committee,

Every October, Ombuds Day offers an opportunity to highlight the valuable role Ombuds play in organizations, communities, and institutions. Whether you’re an organizational ombuds, classical ombuds, or advocate for the profession, the day is a chance to spread awareness, educate the public, and showcase the positive impact of Ombuds.

The good news? You don’t need a big budget to make a big impact. Here are some low-cost and creative ways Ombuds can celebrate Ombuds Day and help others understand the role:

1. Leverage Social Media Storytelling

• Share short, plain-language posts that explain what an Ombuds is and isn’t.
• Create a “Myth vs. Fact” series to clear up common misconceptions.
• Use hashtags like #OmbudsDay and tag professional associations to expand your reach.
• Record a quick video (even on your phone) explaining in 60 seconds why Ombuds matter.

2. Host a “Coffee & Conversation” Event

Invite colleagues, students, or community members to an informal drop-in session or open house. Whether virtual or in person, a casual setting makes it easy for people to ask questions and learn what an Ombuds can do for them.

3. Create a Visual Explainer

People process information visually. A simple infographic explaining the four Ombuds principles of confidentiality, impartiality, independence, and informality can go a long way. Free tools like Canva or Piktochart make design easy without the cost.

4. Engage with Local Media

Submit a short op-ed or press release about Ombuds Day to internal communications, campus publications, or community newsletters. Highlight the importance of your office to provide constructive conflict resolution strategies, assistance in navigating complex systems, and partners in problem-solving.

5. Collaborate with Partners

Team up with key partners or stakeholders, employee or student groups, or professional associations to co-host an Ombuds Day event. Collaboration broadens your audience and builds champions for office.

7. Offer a Mini Workshop or Webinar

Facilitate a free 30-minute session on conflict resolution, communication skills, or navigating workplace concerns. Position it as a service to your community that also highlights the Ombuds role.

8. Celebrate Through Art and Creativity

Invite your community to participate in a small creative campaign:

•   A word cloud of what “fairness” or “conflict” means to them.
•   A collaborative mural or digital collage showcasing constructive conflict engagement.
•   A short poetry or storytelling contest on the theme of “listening.”

9. Use Giveaways with Purpose

Low-cost items like bookmarks, stickers, or postcards with Ombuds contact info and principles can be handed out in offices, libraries, or other areas your constituents gather. Small reminders have lasting impact.

10. Harness the Power of Testimonials

Encourage leaders, colleagues, or partners who understand your value to share short quotes about why Ombuds matter. Third-party voices often carry more weight than self-promotion. These may be shared via your social media channels.

11. Download & Use the Ombuds Day Zoom background and/or email signature

Use the templates below to further bring awareness to the event, day, and the profession. It is a simple way to visually share information about the role. You can simply right click and save the images below for your use.

Final Thought

Ombuds Day is about more than recognition, it’s about education and connection. By using creativity and low-cost strategies, Ombuds can raise awareness, spark conversations, and ensure more people know where to turn when they need a trusted, impartial resource. Please share in the comments below what you are doing for Ombuds day.

Email Signature Images:

Zoom Backgrounds: