Meeting Agenda Template And Worksheet Page 2
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45. Describe how this policy issue will impact homeless people and programs in your community.
Discuss the number and types of individuals, families, or youth who would benefit from the
policy, as well as how they would benefit.
The Alliance can help you decide what to say if you are not sure.
6. Make a SPECIFIC ask.
We ask that (SENATOR/REPRESENTATIVE X)… (i.e., send a letter, sign a congressional sign-on
letter, co-sponsor legislation, vote a specific way, support a specific funding level, etc.).
7. Response from Member/staff.
Think about what questions you expect the Member to ask, based on past contact with him/her.
If the meeting is with a staff person (not the Member), the staff person will have to ask his/her
boss before giving you an answer. Ask when you can follow up with him/her.
If the Member of Congress is there, you should ask, “Who on your staff can I follow up with?”
If, in response to your specific ask, you get a …
o Yes: Say: “Wonderful!”
o Maybe: Ask: “Is there any additional information I can provide to help you decide?”
o No: Ask: “Is there a reason why you will not do this? Is there any information I can provide
that might address some of your concerns?” (This is an excellent opportunity to keep the lines
of communication open.)
8. Closing.
Summarize any commitments made by the Member/staff.
Repeat any questions you need to answer in follow up that you couldn’t answer in the meeting.
Thank them, and ask when and with whom you should follow up.
Invite them to see a local program next time they are at home.
General Talking Points
STATEMENT OF CONCERN:
Use local data to describe the scope of homelessness in your community.
STATEMENT OF THE VALUE: Why does the policy issue matter?
We use this critical funding to do (X). Describe the success of local initiatives/programs.
With increased resources, our community would be able to do (X). (AND/OR) With fewer
resources, we will not be able to do (X).
Explain how you are using these funds to implement best practices, as well as the need for
a continued, sufficient federal investment in these proven strategies.
STATEMENT OF THE SOLUTION:
Restate the policy request and use the talking points available in your Capitol Hill Day
packet to describe how it impacts your community.
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