Election 2010 Tools
It’s Election Time!
Get Involved and
Speak Out for Children!
Elections provide a unique opportunity to advocate on behalf of children and families. You can help candidates understand the issues facing families today and build relationships that last beyond the elections. Children’s issues are often overshadowed by other issues and don’t get the attention they deserve. Children need you to speak out on their behalf.
Together, we can let our candidates know that investing in our children is an investment in our future, and that while children can't vote, they can't be ignored. The local, state, and federal officials voters elect on November 2nd will make decisions every day that affect children and families.
Election 2010 Advocacy Tools
Use the following tools to reach out to candidates and elevate children's issues during this election period:
In addition, New York CAN’s Steering Committee members are available to answer your questions.
Here's what you can do
Register to vote and encourage others to do so.
If you are not registered you can call your local Board of Elections for information or go to the New York State Board of Elections website. Hurry though, the deadline for registering for the General Election is October 8th.
Know who your candidates are.
Check your local newspapers and TV stations for information regarding candidates in your district. Visit USElections.com to see a complete list of New York State candidates. Don’t know what district you live in or who represents you? Visit Congress.org and enter your zip code to find your lawmakers. Do a search on the web to find each candidate’s campaign website and Facebook page.
Share information about children’s issues.
Become a valuable resource to legislators on children’s issues. Schedule an appointment to meet with candidates in your district. Use New York CAN materials to launch a discussion about needs and services in your district. Provide individual success stories. Follow-up your meetings with a thank you letter reiterating your position. And follow-up with newly elected officials after the election.
Invite candidates to see children’s programs in action.
Use the sample program invitation to introduce candidates to programs serving families and children in your district, so they can hear their personal stories. Help your families prepare for the visit ahead of time.
Ask candidates questions.
Bring the New York CAN questions to forums, debates, and candidate appearances and ask questions about children. How will each candidate assure that all children grow up healthy with opportunities to reach their potential? Visit candidate websites and Facebook pages to learn their stance on various issues and their schedule for local appearances.
Tell us how you have spoken out for kids. Let us know what actions you are taking on behalf of kids by e-mailing us at dmastin@scaany.org
Don't forget to vote on November 2nd!
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