Contact Policy Makers, Community Leaders
and the Media on Behalf of Afterschool Programs
When federal, state and local policy leaders hear
from constituents, they often use this information
to determine priorities for communities, states and
the country. Using the information and tools below
is an easy and essential way to make sure that elected
officials and other leaders know that afterschool
programs are critical to helping America's families,
keeping kids safe and inspiring students to learn.
What is Advocacy?
Advocacy is telling a compelling story to a decision
maker in an effort to garner support for an issue.
It's as simple as asking a school board member to
join the Afterschool for All: Project 2010 effort or emailing Members of Congress.
Sometimes, we will ask supporters to also advocate
for sustaining or increasing funding for afterschool
programs. If you work in programs that receive federal
grants, you cannot ask for increased funding in your
official capacity, or use federal funds to advocate
to elected officials. But you can communicate the
successes of your programs and the hopes you have
for continued support from your elected officials.
Why You Should Get Involved
The best person to tell the story of how afterschool
helps America's families, keeps kids safe and inspires
students to learn is you - a parent, teacher, principal,
law enforcement official, concerned citizen and even
a child or youth who benefits from an afterschool
program. Local voices are the strongest voices!
How You Can Do It
Being an advocate for afterschool is easy. We've divided
it into two sections: Resources, Tips and Tools
to prepare your efforts, and Take Action, a
list of components to help you join the Afterschool
Alliance's advocacy efforts. Now, just click for more
information and get started!
Advocacy Resources, Tips and Tools
Take Action!
Contact Congress or check out one of
the specific action items we're working on:
Tips for Communicating with Policy Makers
Before Making Contact, Learn Key Background Information
Visit a Senator's or Representative's Web site (www.senate.gov
or www.house.gov). States and many local municipalities
also have Web sites where you can find information
on state and local elected officials. Be sure to note
the following:
Identify constituent connections
When you send an email or contact an office, it is
important to establish that the elected official represents
you. If you know him or her personally, a member of
the staff, or even family members or children, be
ready to mention this information.
When you call, email or meet in person
- Be specific.
Tell the official why you are there and what you want.
Your interaction might only last a few minutes.
- Establish yourself an expert information source. Elected
officials have limited time, staff and many competing
issues to deal with every day. If they sit on a committee
that covers afterschool as part of its work, they
might be quite familiar with the facts, but many are
not. That's why advocacy is so important. You can
fill their information gap and become their "expert."
- It's ok to admit you don't know something. It gives
you a reason to follow-up with the official or staff
after you have researched an answer.
- Don't "burn
bridges." It is easy to get emotional about issues,
especially if you are at opposite ends. Work to find
some sort of consensus and always leave your dealings
with elected officials on positive terms.
- Remember,
elected officials work for you! You should be courteous
but not intimidated.
After a Meeting
- Follow-up. Thank the official and staff for their
time. If you promised information, be sure to get
back in touch quickly. If the elected official offered
to do something, follow up that offer after a reasonable
time and be sure to thank them for any action they
took. [Return to Top]
