I have a lobbyist- why do I need you?

(AKA: WHAT IS A GRASSROOTS STRATEGIST?)

This is probably the question I hear the most from folks. Sometimes it is not so direct, but the intention is the same.

WHY DO I NEED YOU?

Sounds harsh, but I get it.

You’ve been running an advocacy program for years.

Your bills progress through the process, you have a key group of advocates you can count on, you even have a few legislative wins each year.

You have developed some great legislative champions. You know which lawmakers give you heartburn and which ones will work to move your bills.

But do you know your centers of power? Do you know which districts you have solid grassroots support and which districts you need to work on?

YOU KNOW IN YOUR HEART THAT YOU COULD DO BETTER.

YOU KNOW THAT IF YOU COULD ENGAGE MORE OF YOUR MEMBERS, YOU COULD HAVE EVEN MORE INFLUENCE IN YOUR STATE CAPITOL - MAYBE EVEN IN DC.

However, a lobbying strategy is much different than a grassroots strategy. One is a series of linear tactics and the other focuses on engaging beyond the capitol to build power for years to come.

A lobbying strategy is focused on moving bills from one point to the next.

A grassroots strategy is focused on building the organization’s power.

That’s where I come in. I have helped many organizations create an advocacy roadmap that ensures their strategy inspires their members to get involved - and puts them on the road to build power.