Across the country, 4.2 million young people experience homelessness every year. Not every community has programs and support services, and many young people go unseen and unserved. For these reasons, we need you to take time out of your busy schedule and take action to impact federal policy. Your work in communities and knowledge of the local issues will inform and educate policymakers on the value of community-based interventions that help young people experiencing or are at risk of running away, homelessness, exploitation, and/or trafficking.

This guide will teach you how to effectively build relationships with policymakers and influence their positive participation in NN4Y’s National advocacy campaigns. Intentionally building strong relationships with Members of the U.S. Congress is a critical first step in effectively advocating for policy change. Anyone can advocate.

IN THIS TOOLKIT

  • In-district Advocacy

  • Strategies for Engaging with Members of Congress

  • Op-eds + Letters to the Editor

  • Blogging for Impact

  • E-Advocacy Using Social Media