The Basics of being a UConn Advocate

The UCONN ADVOCATES program is designed to strengthen relationships between legislators and the University of Connecticut through the action of trained advocates. Advocates will communicate to their legislators issues of importance to the University and to higher education in the state of Connecticut.

• Advocate Responsibilities
• Working with Legislators - What Works
• Working with Legislators - What Doesn't Work
• After Initial Contact

ADVOCATE RESPONSIBILITIES

Contact your legislator to introduce yourself and leave your name as a source for additional information from the advocate viewpoint. Contact John K. Hampton at (860) 486-2278 if you need more information about how to contact your target legislator.

Read any bulletins or alerts from UCONN ADVOCATES and stay informed about designated issues.

Help to recruit other UCONN ADVOCATES in your district. Contact the Alumni Association at (860) 486-2240 for information on finding alumni in your neighborhood.

Telephone, write, fax or e-mail your legislator during the legislative session to voice support for the priorities and issues defined for you by the UCONN ADVOCATES (you will receive background information from UCONN ADVOCATES).

Provide feedback on legislators, issues and your advocacy experience to the UCONN ADVOCATES Steering Committee.

The most successful way to discuss issues with your legislator is one-on-one. In person is usually the best way to communicate the cause you represent.

Get to the point ­ the quicker, the better. A handwritten note works better than a lengthy letter. The formula: (1) Say who you are (and that you live in the legislator's district); (2) State your support or issue and ask for a response; and (3) For extra impact, tell how the University affects you personally.

If questioned, don't panic. You do not have to know everything about the University to be effective. But be sure to listen, and refer questions you can't answer to the Alumni Association (860-486-2278). If a legislator disagrees with you, don't argue. Be prepared, however, to politely restate your position.

Be informed, honest, and sincere. Remember to say "thank you."

Do not make threats or promises (e.g., promises of campaign donations or threats of election defeat).

Do not contact legislators at home during the session.

Do not contact legislators without facts. Make sure you know the issues. Read the daily newspaper, bulletins and alerts from the Alumni Association, or contact the Association.

Send letters and fact sheets.

Convey information via telephone.

Send information via fax.

Send information via e-mail if available to you. E-mail addresses for Connecticut legislators can be found on the legislative Web site (http://www.cga.state.ct.us).

Speak to your legislator whenever you have the chance ­ at the community activities, sporting events, or other social gatherings.

Identify the prominent people in your district who fell as you do. Solicit their assistance in contacting legislators.