September 24th, 2022
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CHILD ADVOCACY

Simple Steps to Effect Change in the lives of Children and families

Advocacy is:

Active support for a cause or position

A verb-Requires action of some type

Forming partnerships in support of a position or cause

Forming partnerships with legislators and state administrations

Informing elected officials and the community about a cause or position

Empowering

Another way to show you care about children and families

Advocacy is NOT:

Lobbying: a communication to legislators intended to influence specific legislation (pending or proposed) Source: Foraker Group

Intended to alienate parties

Intended to show disrespect for the opinions or views different from our own

Intended to endorse or oppose a candidate

Lobbying

Lobbying: a communication to legislators intended to influence specific legislation (pending or proposed) Source: Foraker Group Programs RESTRICTED from lobbying include:

Most non-profits

All Federal and State Granted Programs

Head Start and Early Head Start programs

State Employees during work hours

Federal Employees during work hours

Any program which restricts lobbying activities in their personnel policies

A Successful Advocate is:

Respectful

Communicate your message in a respectful manner. Raised voices and rude words or tone alienate people.

Mannerisms: Be on time for meetings, refrain from interrupting, keep on point of the message, and follow up with a thank you statement or note.

Be brief: Most decision makers have very limited time to understand your position or concern and appreciate getting right to the point.

Inviting legislators to visit your program or organization.

Influential

The power to affect other people’s thinking by means of position or action.

Getting other people to participate.

Ensure your communication and actions further your influence.

Always be truthful.

Assume the elected official is somewhat aware of the community needs.