In the 2011 Legislative Session, FACCM was more successful in executing a legislative agenda than in past years. We consistently focused on core issues and positive approaches, We reacted quickly and effectively when Gov Scott started his term with a massive reorganization proposal. We stayed on message, we fought the right battles, and we worked the system. For instance, rather than argue about where AWI/OEL should end up, we used our political capital to make certain the office stayed together and was guaranteed a high degree of independence from whatever agency became its home.

In a Session marked by disastrous budget cuts, our industry suffered less than most. We were told by a host of staffers and legislators that we had a first-class lobbying team working for us that was obviously respected across the political spectrum. Smith, Bryan & Myers really came through for us.

Grassroots groups play a key role in advancing an organization’s goals by interacting with elected officials directly, by working with hired lobbyists and by educating the public at large.

Effective advocacy relies on membership involvement. A grassroots approach has the greatest impact on local politicians. When coordinating a grassroots approach, a centralized message that is sustained and applied locally is effective. Personalize your approaches to political leaders – Real people explaining real concerns.

What Doesn’t Work?

• Confrontational style that harasses or insults;
• Members who are under-informed or are speaking to issues without the facts;
• complaints and reprimands, not issues and solutions.

When developing an advocacy strategy:

• Identify your issue: What is your key concern, problem, or focus?
• Set goals: what is your objective?
• Research and get the facts: AVOID anecdotes.
• Determine your target audiences: With whom are you communicating? Elected officials, public servants, media, members, agencies?
• Communicate with the target audience by: Developing relationships, Establishing vehicles of communications (ie., emails, letter, phone calls, personal visits).
• Develop an advocacy strategy
• Select an EFFECTIVE spokesperson who has confident and strong public speaking skills, is knowledgeable of the issues and appears trustworthy.

When advocating, make the most of the opportunity. Research the facts of the position(s) and monitor government/agency positions. By organizing, mobilizing, and communicating with fellow members, you will promote a unified viewpoint, attract supporters, and organize campaigns.

3 Principles of Politics

• If you want good policy, elect good policy makers!
• If you don’t regulate your industry, someone else will!
• Legislators Value Election to Office – via campaign contributions and Voters.

You can either… “Take part in politics or get taken apart by it.” (Former U.S. Senator Alan Simpson, R-Wyoming)

The key to reaching our objectives under a democratic government has always been participation, a technique that is both time-honored and very much cutting edge. So begin by participating in local calls to action in partnership with the FACCM to gain your representatives’ attention.

How well we as an association are prepared determines our success in advancing our political and public-policy agenda will depend on how committed to action we are. The truth is that, as always, those who are most decisive in their approach, who understand how the procedures work, and who work in teams are the ones who will ultimately prevail in our state capital.

The most basic principle of politics is that “all politics is local.” That reality has never been more true than right now. Every person, group, and organization can enter the new world of grassroots public policy-making by joining the FACCM to be the Leader in Building and Protecting a Vibrant, Professional Childcare Industry.