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Younger Americans Act ImageSite Visits

  One of the most effective ways of educating legislators about the principles and programs of positive youth development and the need for the YAA is to invite them to visit your agency. A site visit gives a Member and his/her staff the opportunity to see firsthand some of the problems that young people in your community face. Most  importantly, they will learn about programs that support young people's safety and positive development -- programs that could be funded by the Younger Americans Act!

Setting up the site visit:

  1. Call your Member of Congress' nearest local office.  Get the phone number from your phone book, directory assistance or from the Member’s website, available from thomas.loc.gov.  Identify yourself, briefly describe your agency/program, and ask to set up a time for your Member of Congress to visit. Also send a written invitation; most offices will request a letter if you have not already sent one. 
  1. Plan what programs or services you will highlight, with whom the Member will meet and other details.  Be sure to have a plan for what you want the Member to see and hear.  Members of Congress have reported that conversations with youth have strongly influenced their legislative work and advocacy on behalf of youth programs.
  1. Invite local press.  A site visit with a Member of Congress is a terrific opportunity to get media coverage of your agency’s work and the need for the Younger Americans Act.  Write a press release connecting youth work with the need for a national youth policy.  Be sure to inform the elected official’s office that the press has been invited.

During the site visit:

  1. Show your program in action.
  1. Develop an effective message. Communicate what your work is, why it is essential and how policymakers can help. Include an introduction to your agency’s mission and the programs and services your agency provides.  Talk about how your work relates to the Younger Americans Act and explain how federal grants support your program and help you leverage local and state dollars.
  1. Arrange for a photograph. A photo of your Member of Congress at your agency may be useful in generating press or for inclusion in your newsletter, and your lawmaker will be pleased to be seen as active in the community.

 

   
© 2001 National Collaboration for Youth