Health centers have a proud tradition of support from both sides of the political aisle. Bipartisan support continues to be beneficial for advocacy and policy priorities. Legislative support on both sides is not limited to federal level, state and local support for health centers are also integral to their success. Enhance your National Health Center Week celebrations by engaging legislators and legislative staff. Whether it’s your Congressional delegation, your state legislators or your county/local officials, or their staff, NHCW provides an excellent opportunity to show your appreciation for policymakers at your health center.
Tips for recognizing legislators and legislative staff:
- Recognize your Legislative Contacts with an Official Certificate from the Health Center Advocacy Network – Download and customize the Certificate of Recognition template.
- Health Center Tours with Legislators or Legislative staff – Invite legislators and their staff to come for a tour of your health center to see firsthand all the good work you and the health center team are doing to care for the community. During the visit you can present an award to your elected official(s) recognizing their support, or you ask them to present an award to a deserving team member at the health center. Awards and recognition are always a great way to connect with policymakers.
- Submit a Letter to the Editor (LTE) or Opinion Editorial to Your Local Media Outlet – use the NHCW media templates to submit a letter to the editor or opinion editorial addressing your policymakers and/or their staff, expressing appreciation and/or explaining the reason why their continued support is so important for the health center and the patients you serve.
- Member of Congress can’t make it to your events? Ask them to celebrate NHCW on social media!
