A great way to educate your elected officials is to set up a meeting with them personally in their district office(s). To get started, you call their local office and ask to schedule a meeting with a member of their staff to talk about your support for quality early care and education investments in school reform efforts. Notify your state coordinator in advance so that we can provide helpful materials.
Here are some tips to help your meeting go smoothly:
- Make an appointment (always call to notify the office if you are late)
- Begin by identifying yourself as a constituent representing Seniors4Kids
- Arrive prepared with what you want to tell your member and how they can help achieve our goal. Whenever possible, bring Seniors4Kids materials to the meeting supporting your position.
- Respond frankly if you don't know the answer to a question. Just let them know that you are happy to check and get back to them after your meeting.
- Follow up the meeting with a thank you letter that outlines the different points covered during the meeting, and send along any additional information and materials requested.
- Report back the details of the meeting to your Lead Captain or State Coordinator
There is no need to become nervous. It is important for people in Congress to hear directly from their constituents. Direct contact is one of the most effective ways Members of Congress and staff learn about the issues facing their constituents. They will welcome your thoughts and concerns.
To Identify Your Member of Congress
1. Visit www.congress.org
2. Enter your zip code in the “write your elected official box”
3. View and contact your Members of Congress
4. Click on your Member of Congress’ website link
5. Look for a “contact” button and click on it to find your local state office
6. Call and schedule a time to meet with the local staffer for your elected official