As a trade association representing youth service organizations providing early intervention services to youth, YIPA provides the foundation for its member’s advocacy. The reasons associations work so well is because it is very difficult for one person to influence policy and funding decisions with state or federal governments. However, an association, with the support of its membership, can make a huge impact.
YIPA has a registered lobbyist (me) that leads our government relations efforts. It is important that a lobbyist understands the legislative process, closely follow what is going on regarding pertinent policy and funding legislation, and ascertain the potential and strategies for success.
However, the best lobbyists for any association are its membership. Through grassroots efforts by its members, associations can wield extra influence on the legislative process. These efforts don’t replace the daily work of the lobbyist, but enhance and compliment the overall government relations effort of the association. How is this done? It’s done by each and every member developing relationships with their elected officials, talking to them about the important issues they are concerned about, and asking for their support when the time is right. A lawmaker who hears about an issue directly from a constituent (who has the power to vote for them and influence others to vote for them) is more likely to give consideration to that person’s concerns.
Grassroots advocacy helps an association in three distinct ways. First, it amplifies the voice of the association in public policy matters, demonstrating to lawmakers that there is broad support or disagreement on a particular issue. Second, it provides and avenue for members to get involved in the association and gain value from the membership. Third, it creates an atmosphere that success can happen when everyone works together.
As you know, the State of MN is facing another budget deficit for the 2010/2011 biennium. Program cuts and unallotment is a sure bet. It’s possible that the Governor and/or lawmakers may target the Youth Intervention Program for further cuts or even elimination. This is why now is the time to get to know your State Senators and Representatives. Make sure they have a good understanding of the early intervention work you do. Invite them out to your site so they can see first hand the work you are doing to improve the lives of youth and the community. If you are currently receiving State Youth Intervention Program funding make sure they know how important it is to your organization and that it is also leveraging community dollars. If you aren’t receiving Youth Intervention funding let them know about your struggles to obtain funding and that a partnership between your organization, your community, and the State is the best approach to addressing the needs of youth who are just beginning to make poor choices in their lives.
Use all the tools you have to make your case. Use the Social Return on Investment (SROI) research document, show your outcomes, talk about your organizations desire to provide quality programming, and demonstrate how additional funding will help you succeed with the youth you serve.
The key to any grassroots advocacy effort is for the association members to develop working relationships with their lawmakers. If you are not already doing this, now is the time to start!
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