Developing a Proposal for Change

What do we mean by developing a proposal for change? It's not enough to point out what's wrong Present better alternatives Your suggestions (or demands for change) and how they can be brought about

Common Forms of Proposals for Change A plan for an intervention, or series of interventions Legislation A Proposal for expanding or refocusing existing services A long-range strategic plan that addresses both the symptoms and the causes of the problem 3

Why develop a proposal for change? You're more credible and in a stronger position You know more about the problem than the policy makers and can draw on local people and resources You can include everything you believe is necessary It gives the community ownership 4

Who should participate in developing a proposal for change? Stakeholders Community activists Local officials and community members Experts in the field Policy makers 5

When should you develop a proposal for change? At the beginning of an advocacy or legislative campaign When there is a problem, but no solution When policy makers have indicated they're about to address the issue When potentially bad solutions are being proposed During, or leading to, an election When the public wants an issue solved 6

How do you develop a proposal for change? Assemble a team to develop it Do your research Analyze the issue Develop your proposal Create a plan for maintaining change Present and advocate for the proposal 7