What Does MLK Day Mean To You?

Patch is the place to find hyperlocal news that's important to you. We have professional journalists working round the clock to deliver the best content possible — often stories the bigger sites overlook or don't have time to cover. But, we can't do it alone. We need your help.

That's why we're making it easier than ever to find your voice on Patch. Tell us what's going on in your community. Share events, write movie or restaurant reviews, cover the high school football team. Whatever you're passionate about, there's a place for it on Patch. Here's how to get started.

Step 1: Sign up

Apply for a free account. Connect with Facebook to keep things simple, or fill in your information and create a new Patch login. You'll receive an email once your account is approved. Why do we make you apply? To make sure you're real and local. We don't want your content to be overwhelmed by non-local content — or worse, spam.

Step 2: Get posting

You're ready to post on Patch. Here are your options:

Write an article

1. Click or tap the + Article button
2. Choose your Patch: Enter your town name or zip code.
3. Choose your topic: The bulletin board is for local news, announcements, opinions and lost pet notices while deals & classifieds is for local sellers
4. Add an article headline and brief description of your story
5. Drop in an awesome photo (make sure you have permission or own the copyright)
6. Write a story you'd like to share with your community
7. Click 'Post Now' and check it out on Patch

Post an event

1. Click or tap the + Event button
2. Choose your Patch: Enter your town name or zip code
3. Enter an event title that describes what the event is
4. Add the date and time for the event
5. Add an eye-catching photo
6. Share details about the event and specific information you'd like attendees to know
7. Write the event address in the specific fields
8. Include a website that users can go to for more information about the event
9. Click "Post Now" and see your event on the Patch calendar

Step 3: Become a Patch Contributor

If you have a story you think is particularly good, email your local editor for it to be considered for the homepage. Once you've posted a few high-quality articles, you may be promoted to a Patch contributor.

Contributors are important voices in the local community: business leaders, city officials, charities, schools, non-profits or bloggers. Their content goes straight to the homepage without the need to consult the editor and can reach a larger, more targeted audience through our daily newsletters, Facebook and Twitter accounts.

Rick Uldricks contributed to this article.