influencing elected officials & decision makers

Influencing Elected Officials & Decision MakersT.J. SutcliffeMatt Rosen

Goals of the PresentationTo educate you about the processes and opportunities to improve the systems and services that affect you.

To empower you to live into your role as agents of change

Influencing Decision Makers ModelWhat is asolution?Did it work? What isthe problem?Who canhelp?(public official)TakeACTION!Celebrate!Plan yourACTION!

START

Identify the Problem(s)

What needs are not being met?What rights are not being respected?What barriers are keeping you from your goals?

Be truthful, to the point, and understandable.

Identify the Solution(s)

What service or support would meet your needs?How would you change anothers action or behavior so that everyones rights are respected? Again, be truthful, to the point, and understandable.

Who needs to be influenced?Types of decision makers:Service ProvidersElected OfficialsYou and other consumers

It is necessary that all three groups work together, even if we do not agree.

Plan your ActionBuild a coalition.Assign roles and responsibilities.Understand the opposition.Understand the financial impact on individuals and the community.Determine the best messenger(s).Develop a compelling story

Take Action!Implement the plan as you have laid it out with the coalition.

Evaluate your ActionWhat is working?How can we be more effective?How is our message being received?What are others (locally and nationally) doing?

Celebrate your AccomplishmentsEvery step towards justice is worth celebrating!Acknowledging our accomplishments keeps everyone energized and empowered.

Ongoing Opportunities Participate in activities with the Developmental Disabilities Council, Project ACTION!, and other community advocacy groups.Attend Agency Meetings and Advisory Board Meetings.Testify at legislative, oversight and budget hearings.VOTE!

Tips for Effective ActionBe prepared with facts and how they impact you, other individuals and the community.Build trust and be respectful (even in disagreement) with decision makers.Be clear on what you want and focus on what is important to you.Prepare statements and practice before meetings or testifying.Ask for help from other advocatesNumbers=Power.Understand the power structure.

Matt Rosen Director of Advocacy and Public Policy The Arc of [email protected] SutcliffePolicy AdvocateThe Arcof the United [email protected]

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