To secure lasting victories that benefit infants, toddlers, expectant parents, and families, we must make the most of the advocacy lifecycle. In election years, we must work to ensure candidates know prenatal-to-three (PN-3) policy issues are critical; once elected, we must be prepared to make the most of key inflection points to advance our policy agenda.
In this lifecycle, the brief window immediately following an election is a uniquely valuable period of time. Before the next legislative session convenes, advocates can position themselves to achieve long-term policy victories and effective implementation.
In this moment, advocates can use techniques rooted in power mapping strategy (more on that here) to build authentic and long-lasting relationships with newly elected lawmakers, align with allies and partners on policy goals for the year ahead, and mobilize volunteers to drive policy action.
Download Full ToolkitThis toolkit offers tried-and-true advocacy strategies and real-world tips to help members of the National Collaborative for Infants & Toddlers (NCIT) advance an impactful policy agenda. While these strategies can be useful at any point in a legislative cycle, they are especially effective after an election because supporters remain energized and lawmakers are motivated to take action. This toolkit shares strategies on scenario planning, post-election communications, preparing for new elections and building legislative target lists, engaging volunteers year-round, and asking smart questions of lawmakers.
Consider bringing this toolkit to planning meetings or retreats to share knowledge with your advocacy partners and supporters. Because no two advocacy plans are exactly the same, this toolkit aims to help you think creatively about the unique approaches that work best for your team and your policy priorities.
We hope you’ll reach out to us if you have any questions. NCIT is here to support your advocacy efforts. We offer no-cost one-on-one coaching, tools and resources, connections to partner organizations, and training to organizations advocating for policies that impact expectant parents, infants, toddlers, and their families. Reach out to us today! All questions are welcome. Connect with us here.
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NCIT is here to support your advocacy campaign in a variety of ways to help you plan and execute your campaign. We’re eager to hear your feedback on this toolkit. What other resources would you like to see? Are there other resources you’d like to share with us? Connect with us here through NCIT’s TA portal to begin a discussion about how we can best support your advocacy.
