Capitol Hill Visit Packet

February 2012

TO:  Social Ministry Colleagues
FROM:  Capitol Hill Visits Organizing Committee
RE:  Important reminders during your meetings with Members of Congress

Welcome to Washington, D.C., where as members of the Catholic family we bring a unified message in support of important issues that affect our sisters and brothers here and around the world.

To be effective advocates, it is important to develop relationships with your Senators and Representatives and their staffs through early and frequent contact. If you have not already met them, the meetings this week are a great first step. We hope you will also be able to continue your advocacy when your Members are at home. This packet contains information on effective Congressional advocacy strategies that we hope you will find helpful. Please refer to your program for more details or ask Gathering staff about any of the meetings and sessions outlined below.

IMPORTANT REMINDERS:

• A state captains meeting is scheduled for 2:15 p.m. on Sunday, February 12. State captains and co-captains will meet to go over final details on organizing their state delegations for Capitol Hill visits. (State captains are identified ahead of time.)
• A First-Timers orientation (also for those who want to refresh their skills) will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Sunday, February 12.
• All state delegations will meet on Monday, February 13, at 1:00 p.m. or alternatively on Tuesday, February 14, at 7:45 a.m. during the continental breakfast.
• The domestic and international policy priority briefings on Monday afternoon, February 13, will explore more concretely the issues we will be advocating on Capitol Hill. This is an excellent opportunity to ask questions and to receive clarifications and the most up-to-date information on the issues.
• Do not forget to leave a packet of information with each office you visit. Packets will be provided to state captains. If you need additional packets, see the registration desk for more copies.  
• Please invite Members and staff to our Capitol Hill Reception on Tuesday, February 14, at 5:00 p.m. (room to be announced).
• After the visit, please complete the Hill Visit Report Back Form, in hard copy or electronic form, to let us know about the results of your Hill visits. A sample of a completed form will be provided. Your feedback is helpful as we continue to advocate these issues here in Washington, D.C.