An Advocacy Adventure

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An Advocacy Adventure

• Bonnie G. Danowski
• bjdanowski_at_cox.net
• 602-996-6635

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What is advocacy?

• Speaking out
• Telling our stories
• Makes change
• How we learn
• How we educate
• Relationships

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Why dont we?

• No time or energy
• Lack of confidence
• No one to work with
• Caregivers always on shaky ground

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Areas for Advocacy

• Public places
• Religious places
• Private places
• Government
• Anywhere we go

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Successful Advocacy

• Relationships
• Coalitions/organizations
• Understanding of power
• Professionalism
• Gets results
• Relationships

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What makes us effective?

• Understanding power
• Position of confidence
• Understanding anger
• Negotiation
• Persistence
• Develop relationships
• Become part of solution
• Know your stuff!
• Trust instincts

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The Arizona Lifespan Respite Care Story

• Started with peoples stories
• Research actions
• Develop relationships
• Flexibility
• 2000-2008
• Follow up
• Always continue development and deepening of
  relationships

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How To Meet With Elected Officials

• Phone call to make the appointment
• Preparation
• Meeting
• Evaluation
• Follow up

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Benefits of Advocacy

• Confidence
• Become smart
• We are the experts
• Meet other interesting people
• Of service to the community
• Learn new skills
• Can make change
• It is an adventure
• ITS FUN!