Be an Advocate
"Be a voice for those who cannot!"
Public Policy Advocacy
When we advance the common good in our community we create opportunities for a better life for all. We all win when a child enters school ready to learn. We all win when our youth are academically successful and graduate from high school ready for college or career. We all win when families are financially stable and prosperous. We all win when children and families have access to affordable, quality health care. We all win when individuals make healthy choices and are free from substance abuse.
These are the building blocks to a strong community. Addressing the underlying causes of problems, we will create long lasting changes. We recognize that systemic change often requires legislative action or a dramatic shift in government policies and funding. An important path to bring about these changes at both a grass roots and grass top level is by influencing public policy and legislation through advocacy.
United Way believes government plays a critical role in creating change that can improve people’s lives, and plays a significant role in achieving our community impact goals. But government cannot do it alone. Neither can United Way and the rest of the nonprofit sector. United Way of Broward County must actively engage in public policy advocacy to build coalitions and develop partnerships that include local, state and federal government, along with the nonprofit sector, faith based organizations, community activists and business leaders.
Engaging the Broward community
· Lead Community Conversations
· Build diverse coalitions of community stakeholders
· Promote engagement strategies to move the public to action
· Develop relationships with elected officials and policy makers
Public Policy Advisory Committee
· Researches public policy issues impacting United Ways community impact work
· Develops an annual public policy agenda and position papers
· Creates public engagement strategies
· Cultivates ongoing relationships with elected officials
Get Involved
Your passion for change, your desire to make a difference, and your unique voice - these are powerful tools you have to bring about positive change.
Get informed, find your voice, and tell everyone you know. Spread the word, further the mission and see the amazing process of change in action. You can be a champion by advocating a cause, engaging in public policy, and showing your commitment in everything you do.
Know Your Elected Officials...
They work for you...
Send them your ideas and feedback
To find your local legislator, click here.
To get some tips on writing or emailing your legislator, click here.
Sample Letter/Email Supporting Public Education:
Adress the greeting as: Honorable First & Last Name
Education is a critical driver of our economic success as a state and country. Now more than ever, we need your support for a strong and viable public education system. In a 21st century global economy, our children need the tools to be successful, and we will need a highly skilled workforce to be competitive.
As a (parent/concerned citizen) I ask your support to provide adequate funding for our public schools. Funding for public education is not simply a budgetary expense, but is an investment in the future of our state. Dollars are needed to invest in the training and retention of highly effective teachers; in innovation and technology; and to improve school facilities. We need to support our teachers with the tools and resources they need to be successful in teaching our children. Teachers are professionals who change lives and open up possibilities and opportunities for our children. They are the ignition switch driving our economic engine. While all parents should have the options and choices available to send their children to the best schools, we should never waiver from support of our public schools, so they remain a strong and viable option. Successful and strong neighborhood public schools can have on a significant impact on building a strong community.
Thank you for your support,
Name
