[NIFL-FAMILY:2755] Advocacy

From: Tony Peyton (tpeyton@famlit.org)
Date: Fri Feb 25 2000 - 10:59:14 EST


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From: "Tony Peyton" <tpeyton@famlit.org>
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Subject: [NIFL-FAMILY:2755] Advocacy
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Advocacy:

What better way to educate your elected officials about family literacy than
by inviting them to attend an event at your program.

If you plan to invite an elected official to your event, it's important to
write your Congressperson, Senator or other local official early! Letters
that count with policy makers are those that show evidence of thought and
commitment. The letter is the most popular choice of communication with a
congressional office. If you decide to write a letter, consider this list of
helpful suggestions as a way to improve your chances of getting your
Congressperson or Senator to attend your event.

Suggestions:
·	Tell briefly about yourself and your involvement with family literacy. The
personal touch is a great way to call attention to your request.
·	State your purpose for writing in the first paragraph of the letter, i.e.,
why you want the official to attend your event.
·	State specifically what you want the official to do at your event.
·	Be original. Never use a form letter or send copies as originals. Don't
worry about typing -- sometimes handwritten letters are best (just make sure
it's legible!)
·	Be courteous, to the point, and include key information about how you plan
to celebrate the day.
·	Follow up with the official's scheduler.
·	Let them know that you may have media at the event and that you are
distributing press releases for a local event that has a national focus.
·	Address correspondence (you can find out your Representatives and Senators
at the following Web sites: www.house.gov/writerep
www.senate.gov/contacting/index_by_state.cfm )
(To a Senator)
The Honorable (full name)
United States Senate
Washington, D.C. 20510

(To a Representative)
The Honorable (full name)
United States House of Representatives
Washington, D.C. 20515

Or, if you have your Senator's or Congressperson's local address, it's
preferable to send the letter to the local office.

Finally, if your elected official cannot attend your event, suggest the
attendance of an alternative staff member.

Tony Peyton
Alan Lopatin



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