Table of Contents
This toolkit explains everything you need to know about how to easily plan and schedule Member site visits or meetings. Each section walks you through different aspects of engaging your Member of Congress and planning for the event or meeting. Tools are templates or worksheets you can personalize for your local project. Resources provide you with additional useful information.
1. Designing the Event or Meeting
- Deciding between an event or a meeting
- Identifying your “story” or message
- Engaging your partners
- Thinking through the logistics
➢ TOOL: Planning Worksheet
➢ RESOURCE: Notifying SRTSNP and Getting Help
2. Inviting Your Member of Congress
- Obtaining contact information for your Member of Congress
- Understanding the scheduling process
➢ TOOL: Sample invitation or meeting request
➢ TOOL: Sample script for following up with the scheduler
3. Developing Background Materials
- Creating a one-pager on your local SRTS project
- Downloading background materials from SRTSNP
- Producing informational packets
➢ TOOL: Template for one-pager on your local SRTS project
➢ RESOURCE: Downloadable fact sheets on SRTS across the country and in your state
➢ RESOURCE: Summary of reauthorization recommendations for SRTS
4. Carrying out a Successful Event
- Planning the event
- Engaging the media
- Holding the event
➢ TOOL: Event checklist
➢ TOOL: Press release template
➢ RESOURCE: Tips for giving interviews
5. Conducting a Successful Meeting
- Understanding the basics of meeting with a Member of Congress
- Planning the meeting content and message
- Conducting the meeting
➢ TOOL: Sample talking points on SRTS and the reauthorization recommendations
6. Following up after the Event or Meeting
- Thanking the Member of Congress and staff
- Keeping in touch with your Member of Congress after the event
➢ TOOL: Sample thank you letter
➢ RESOURCE: Updating SRTSNP about your event or meeting
7. Appendix: Lobbying Versus Education: Rules and Regulations