As one begins to recruit members into grassroots network, one will likely hear reasons as to why they do not like to get involved in grassroots advocacy networks. Therefore, this paper provides some ways to overcome some of the typical roadblocks in grassroots advocacy. The reasons for these roadblocks can be easily overcome by educating friends…

It's the season for sharing--sharing one's views with elected officials, that is. All across the country and in Washington, lawmakers are holding formal hearings or less-formal listening sessions on critical issues. Because these events can influence elected officials' perceptions about the importance of physical education and health, knowing how…

The most influential communication one can have with an elected official is a face-to-face meeting. It gives one an opportunity to make one's case directly to the lawmaker and to discern his or her support or opposition on the issue. In this article, the author offers some tips to help one have successful meetings with one's state legislators or…

When members of Congress head home for a recess, participants in the grassroots network have an opportunity to use one of their effective education tools: the site visit. A site visit occurs when a legislator actually visits one's business, school, or organization to see one's work firsthand. A local site visit is effective because grassroots…

One of the most important tasks an organization can take on is assisting in getting a law passed at the state level. Many times, passing a state law can be a critical first step to passing federal legislation on the same topic. Completing the various steps to bring a law to Congress can take anywhere from five to ten years, or even longer. Because…

At a seminar, two Congressional staff members offered good tips on how it is best to communicate with legislators. Although offered in the context of communicating with Congress, these insights are also valuable when working with state and local legislators. This article discusses the key points that were provided in the seminar. In addition to…