Special Edition: Legislative Advocacy Techniques For Unpredictable Times Such as Government Shutdown

With the world in such an odd place currently, parties divided arguments on both sides. The question of how to advocate properly and effectively is not an uncommon one for organizations still seeking funding. In this edition, we are going to share some strategies and techniques you can utilize when. Other factors are impacting overall decisions.

Shrewd thinking is the key. Ultimately, many politicians must decide how to cut back.  Even with certain federal protections in underserved populations, such as developmental disability, this question is looming in many political circles. No one can truly predict what will be cut and when and if it will be cut? As a result, the best advice this consultancy can give any advocacy efforts being made by organizations is to pay attention to the leaders representing your population on a federal level. An example of this is the disability community represented by the Department of Developmental Services. This is a federal department designed and created to protect population during times of crisis, which is what we are in. The second federal organization to represent developmental disability is the State Council on Developmental Disabilities. These are the two major leaders. In times of financial hardship on a federal level where there is a trickledown effect no matter what, we recommend looking at organizations or federal representations such as the ones we just mentioned for guidance and advice on how to shape your advocacy. Join their newsletters stay informed within the population. Each state is different, So the names of these organizations change slightly depending on where you live. However, a simple Google search of federal organizations representing developmental intellectual disability will get you the answer regardless of your state. You just insert your state name. Once you know the federal effort, you can then better organize your organizational effort and know if hiring third parties like a consultancy is appropriate. Involvement in the political process, regardless of constraint, is always important. However, we always emphasize going about it in a smart and strategic manner. Remember, we are stronger together.