Illinois Partners is proud to offer advocacy training for human service professionals who want to engage in state-level advocacy. We designed this curriculum to focus on our sector, connect advocates throughout the state, promote shared learning and introduce frameworks and tools for effective advocacy. Participants will gain a clear understanding of the legislative process, learn key advocacy strategies, and develop skills in communicating with policymakers. Through interactive discussions, hands-on exercises, and real-world examples, attendees will explore how to connect with legislators and key decision makers, mobilize supporters, and track policy developments that impact human services. This training is open to and designed for all human service professionals with a focus on those who are new to advocacy.
Training Series
1. Introduction to Advocacy
Participants learn why human service professionals should engage in advocacy and how to engage in advocacy in ways that align with our non-profit status.
2. Developing an Advocacy Plan and Galvanizing Support
Participants examine how to move from issue identification and understanding towards building support and determining tactics and finally how to escalate strategy for the win. This session includes practical application of advocacy skills like powermapping.
3. School House Rock for Illinois
Participants explore how state-level advocacy looks in Illinois and who are the key players and organizations to know.
4. Lessons from Illinois Advocates
Participants will hear from a panel of advocates sharing their lessons on building coalitions, developing campaigns, and overcoming challenges in advocacy and organizing.
Training will be conducted by Illinois Partners Staff and Guest Facilitators who are Leaders in Illinois Advocacy.
Our Training Objectives
- Increase understanding of the state legislative process and key advocacy strategies.
- Build skills in organizing and mobilizing supporters including how to engage with policymakers.
- Provide tools for tracking and responding to policy developments that impact human services.
- Foster collaboration and networking among professionals to strengthen collective advocacy efforts.
What Participants Can Expect
Participants in our workshops will join a community of practice to share best practices, challenges, and strategies with one another to effectively advocate for human services in Illinois.
Illinois Partners staff will be available for technical assistance in applying the strategies after the sessions.
Participants will have access to a shared resource library
Cost of the Training
Illinois Partners is launching a fee-based model for training.
Financially contributing partners will receive a 50% discount and a limited number of scholarships are available for individuals who are not employed or sponsored by an organization.
Upcoming Trainings
Sign up for our newsletter to receive training updates and be the first to learn about our next series. Technical assistance is available after each training session to answer questions, address challenges, or assist participants with new communication materials.
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