The advocacy process can be very complex and much of it is hidden from view. Often you need a policymaker (or two) to act as your champion inside the system.

Ideally, your champion will be someone who:

• Is influential within the system you want to influence - a legislator can be influential in advocating within the administration and vice versa

• Is experienced at working within the system

• Knowledgeable about your issue

• Dedicated to the cause, perhaps for personal reasons

• Works easily with you and your organization.

Champions Can Be

Legislators

Legislative Staffers

Agency Staffers

Lobbyists

Experienced Advocates

Influential Organizations - e.g. CBIA, CT State Medical Society, CCAG

Another Elected Official - e.g. a Mayor  or Selectman

After You Identify Your Champion(s) -TRUST Them

Get them what they need when they need it - e.g. information, fact sheets, mailings, a grant written, a letter to the editor

Do what they tell you - if they tell you to organize calls to a legislator, do it

Communicate with them often - let them know what is happening outside the process, find out what is happening inside

Thank them profusely and publicly

Support them after the process (and before the next time) - e.g. make sure your supporters know of their hard work, work on their campaign .

Sometimes You Need To Go Above And Beyond For The Champion

When it comes to advocacy , if your champion wants you to walk his dog, do it. Legislative and administrative processes have become so complex that an inside strategy is often necessary.