WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Congressional Management Foundation (CMF) will announce the 113th Congress Gold Mouse Awards for the best websites and social media practices on Capitol Hill on Monday, April 28, 8:00 AM via email and its website. If your office won an award, you will be notified at that time. Accompanying the list of award winners will be a report by CMF that provides trends, information, and guidance on effective congressional websites and social media practices.

A total of 70 personal office and committee websites will receive a Gold, Silver, or Bronze Mouse Award. An additional 17 Senators and Representatives will receive the first Gold Mouse Awards for social media. Unlike previous Gold Mouse Awards research projects, CMF did not grade every website so your office will NOT be receiving a grade. Offices wishing to improve their online communications will be offered briefings, on-demand video training, and clear written guidance for enhancing their communications with constituents and stakeholders.

This is the first year CMF will offer a Gold Mouse Awards for social media (personal offices only). Rather than centering on the specific platforms Member are using—such as Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube—CMF's awards for social media emphasize specific practices, regardless of the platform used, that: demonstrate an effort to be transparent and accountable; focus on constituents and constituent service; and attempt to keep constituents informed of, and engaged, in the work of the Members and of Congress.

Award-winning offices will be invited to an awards luncheon on May 28 at 12:00 pm in B338 & B339 Rayburn House Office Building.

Founded in 1977, CMF is a 501(c)(3) nonpartisan nonprofit dedicated to helping Congress and its Members meet the evolving needs and expectations of an engaged and informed 21st century citizenry. Its work focuses on improving congressional operations and enhancing citizen engagement through research, publications, training, and management services.