hOW TO ADVOCATE

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I don't go to UMich but I want to make an impact while working on behalf of UNICEF USA. What should I do?

There are so many ways for you to advance UNICEF USA's mission:

Use and reference our website to learn how you can take action independent of UNICEF and UNICEF USA affiliations. We share information about events, campaigns, advocacy swarms, social events, fundraising projects, outreach, and community mobilization.
Follow UNICEF at Michigan, UNICEF Clubs, UNICEF USA, and UNICEF on social media platforms. Look for events, campaigns, webinars, elections, volunteer politicians, interns, and more.
If you are in high school or attend an accredited university, look into establishing a campus initiative. Click the button below to learn more.
Reach out and ask questions! UNICEF at the University of Michigan is always looking to collaborate with other schools and campus leaders, and assist change-makers across the country. We are more than happy to help with resources, meeting plans, and taking action.
Encourage friends, neighbors, roommates, parents, professors, classmates, and anyone else you interact with to take charge!

UNICEF UNITE & Campus Initiatives

Option 1: Make a Phone Call

Step 1

Find your House Representatives here and your Senators here.

Step 4

Write out a short script. See quick examples below or click here for an extra resource.

Step 2

Get their contact information and input it into your phone’s contacts for easy access (phone number and email).

Step 5

Call! If you'd rather leave a voicemail, you can call after the office closes. A voicemail as short as 10 seconds will make an impact.

Step 3

Research a policy proposal that you are passionate about like those found on UNICEF’s Action Page

Step 6

Done! Repeat this small act once a week. Encourage your family and friends to follow suit.

uNSURE WHAT TO SAY? rEFERENCE THESE SCRIPTS:

1. Hello,

My name is [name] and a constituent in [Your State’s ##] District. I am a supporter of UNICEF USA and urge you to co-sponsor [Name of legislation]. Feel free to call me back with any questions at (###) ###-####. Thanks!

2. Hello,

My name is [name name] and I am a supporter of UNICEF. I would like you to support[Name of legislation].

3.Hello,

I am a UNICEF supporter. Please protect the [type of funding/bill/relief effort.]

Option 2: Email or Send a Letter

Step 1: Research

Visit a credible organization that advocates for the same policy and change as you. Learn about what they have to say, read the policy in detail to make sure it is something you support, and make sure you are staying true to your values. Also, make sure the representative you are contacting hasn't already co-sponsored the legislation. If they have, you can thank them via social media posts (ie.: Twitter).

Step 2: Templates

See if there are prewritten templates that you can use from credible organizations Repetition is key in the Congressional Office’s algorithms!
Use their template and send it to the email listed on your representative’s website.
If there aren't templates or prefilled webpages available, use these links to find contacts:

Step 3: Writing

If they don’t have a template you can use, write your own!

Important Points To Include:

Who are you?
What are you asking for?
Why is your ask important and relevant?
Do you have any recommendations or preferred courses of action?

Important Notes:

Be kind & be respectful.
Do your research.
Cite sources.
Use a professional format.
Check your email name - is it one you would feel comfortable using to contact your boss?
Keep your letter straight to the point (one page!) Your leader’s office should be able to skim it and get a complete visual of your ask.

Who is my representative?

Who is my senator?

Who are my local officials?

UNICEF Strategic Plan

Human Rights Watch

117th U.S. Congress

Zonta International

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