What is grassroots advocacy?

Grassroots advocacy is a distinctive approach to public participation in which everyday people, not political, legislative, or policy professionals, help shape public policy and perception.

Why do grassroots tactics work?

Grassroots advocacy is effective because it:

• Shows decision-makers that their constituents – the people to whom they are accountable – care about a particular issue

• Builds real pressure to win policy changes that can make a different for CHRISTUS and the communities it serves

• Puts a “human face” on a legislative issue

• Provides a concrete way for people to make a difference on an issue that affects their lives

• Provides credibility by highlighting personal experiences and the way that the policy decisions affect lives and communities

• Complements direct lobbying and other public affairs tactics

The toolkit

This toolkit will provide you with the tools you need to effectively educate elected officials and others. It includes:

• Tips for Writing Effective Letters
• Tips for Making Effective Phone Calls