Strengthening grassroots advocacy: The Advocacy Network With in-person events cancelled for the foreseeable future, the GR team began working on a strategy to enhance our grassroots advocacy efforts. In the lead up to our efforts, Advocis hosted a two-part series of Coffee Talks on why advocacy matters to our industry and why members should consider volunteering their time as an advocate for their clients and the profession. In the Spring, the Government Relations Committee (GRC) had a productive meeting where a strategic advocacy plan was unanimously adopted. This plan includes: stronger synergy between PACs and Chapter Leadership, better equipping of advocacy volunteers with the tools they need to succeed, and ensuring more organization and a simple database for all advocacy volunteers across the country. The plan was introduced to PACs and Chapter Leaders from across the country via regionally-based webinars in the fall. Hosted and moderated by Advocis GR, those in attendance heard from senior advocacy volunteers including the Chair of the GRC and the Chair of the TFAAC Board. The Advocacy Network was then launched. Exclusive to Advocis members in good standing and free of charge, members of the network will enjoy several benefits, including:
• Being connected with members from their area who share their passion for advocacy
2020 ANN UA L RE PORT LOO KI NG FO RWAR D
• Invitations to participate in Legislature Days (Legislature Day invitations will be exclusive to members of the Advocis Advocacy Network)
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• Tips from experienced Advocis Government Relations (GR) staff to help maximize their advocacy potential
• Advocacy Updates from Advocis GR staff
Launched in November, the network had over 100 members by the end of 2020. All members of the network will be invited to an introductory webinar in the Spring of 2021.
ENHANCED GRASSROOTS ADVOCACY EFFORTS
