1. Get Involved: District Office Visits

2. Why Visit the District Office?  To meet with your elected representative  To discuss your position on a particular issue  To share your personal experience/community perspective  To get a commitment from legislator  To establish the beginning of a lasting relationship  Consider Summer Recess Dates: July 17 – August 17 2015

3. Scheduling a Visit  Find your legislator at http://www.leginfo.ca.gov/yourleg.html  Visit webpage for contact info and meeting request instructions.  Submit request via email or web form. Follow up with a call 2-3 days later  Build a Team  Prepare Request Details:  who you are/group you represent,  why you want to meet/policy priorities,  names of anyone who will attend the meeting with you,  when you would like to meet, and  your contact information (phone number, address, email address)

4. Meeting Preparation  Be familiar with the legislator  Check status of your bills http://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billS earchClient.xhtml http://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billS earchClient.xhtml  Know the Supporters & Opponents  Prepare Materials to Leave Behind  Take an Outline  Plan for 15 minutes  Arrive 5-10 minutes early, be patient  Be Professional & Polite  Follow up with a thank you email or letter. Include:  the issue/bill number,  your position, and  your contact information

5. Talking Points  Introductions  Name and relevant personal/professional information  Statement of the Meeting Purpose  Bill title and number & your position  Personalize Your Message  Why is this issue important to you?  Get a Commitment  Determine the Follow up  Use your own words  Be Concise  Connect to Values  Stick to your message  Be courteous  Say Thank You

6. Questions? Natalie Marie Ybarra Community Engagement Coordinator NY@publichealthadvocacy.org (626)962-5900