Advocating for Sound Health Policy for ASHA

Advocating for Sound Health Policy

Hosted by: ASHA

Date

Ongoing Opportunity

Time

Contact coordinator for times

Location

Durham County, North Carolina

Contact

About Advocating for Sound Health Policy

Advocating for Sound Health Policy
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As the oldest nonprofit organization in the underserved area of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), ASHA plays a leading role in sexual health advocacy efforts through its Office of Health Policy in Washington, DC. We work with members of Congress and other important partners in health policy to educate policy makers about the urgency of Sexual Health, the need for additional research, and the importance of frontline support for sexual health programs in our communities. ASHA’s vice president of health policy, Deborah Arrindell, continues to work to advocate for increased funding for raising the visibility of the issues in Congress.

We need volunteers to help with:

Make Visits

Legislators are real people, elected by you to represent your interests. Most are extremely personable and will genuinely enjoy meeting you. Appointments can be arranged by calling or writing the legislator's district or Washington office. District offices are listed in your local phone book. Always identify yourself as a constituent when asking for an appointment. If the legislator is unavailable, the appropriate staff person may offer to meet with you -- don't pass up this opportunity to initiate a relationship.

Make Phone Calls

Unless you have a personal relationship with the legislator you are calling, ask to be referred to the staff member responsible for health issues or funding. Keep in mind that congressional offices receive hundreds of calls each day -- be brief and to the point. You can always follow up with more information by mail. To reach any Washington congressional office, phone 202-224-3121 and ask for your legislator by name. District and state offices are listed in local phone books.

Write Letters

A poll of House and Senate staff members asked what form of communication makes the most impression on them and the legislators for whom they work. The overwhelming response was articulate, thoughtful and timely letters from constituents. Letters should be kept short and to the point. The most effective letters tie the relevant issue to the legislator's home state or district. If you know how STD funding levels, or block-grant proposals will impact your facility, program or clinic, be sure to include this information in your communication.