Advocacy Toolkit for Survivors and Prevention Services

There are many ways to support victims and survivors of domestic violence. You can offer emotional support, help them create a safety plan, or connect them to local resources that meet their needs. Another way to support survivors is by advocating for policies and laws that support survivors. These laws can increase funding and expand services, allowing domestic violence organizations to support more survivors.

It can feel overwhelming to know where to start or what to do when it comes to advocacy. That’s why we created our Advocacy Toolkit. Our toolkit will equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to advocate for survivors and prevention services.

What is Advocacy?

Advocacy is organized activism in support of an idea or cause. It consists of constituents contacting their elected officials about issues that are important to them and establishing relationships with these legislators. The right of citizens to petition their government is basic to our democratic way of life. As the people who elected them to Congress, elected officials must consider their constituents’ needs.

Advocacy is not a one-time activity. It is about building a trusted relationship with elected officials, administrators, and their staff over time. This relationship is rooted in mutual respect and trust. Even if you and your representatives disagree, you want them to trust your facts and sources. This is the best foundation for educating policymakers and advocating for survivors.

Learn More and Get Involved.

The legislative process can be both complex and impersonal. Our advocacy toolkit will give you an overview of Congress and how a bill becomes law. It will help you determine who your representatives are and how to establish a relationship with them. The toolkit will give you the skills to conduct a meeting with an elected official, including the do’s and don’ts for a successful meeting.

As you use our advocacy toolkit, sign up for our action alerts to remain current on bills and funding related to domestic violence. Together, we can create a world where all relationships are healthy and free from violence.