When I tell people I work at a child advocacy organization, they often want to know more about what Kentucky Youth Advocates does. I explain that we want every Kentucky child to have the opportunity to succeed no matter where they were born or what family situation they are in. I explain that we work hard to ensure our elected leaders make policy decisions that are good for kids and families. And, I also explain what it means to be a child advocate. The truth is everyone – including you – can be a child advocate by taking a few simple actions:
- Register and vote.
- Know your own local, state, and national representatives.
- Know your issue(s) well and call, write letters, and visit your elected officials to communicate your concerns.
- Tell your story. Make sure your information is accurate, specific. Give your contact information in case there is a need for follow-up.
- Support organizations such as Kentucky Youth Advocates that work to support your issue(s).
- Stay informed so that you can multiply your efforts.
- Educate and involve others in your cause by talking to your neighbors and friends or writing a letter to the editor of your local newspaper.
- Be willing to compromise, but hold elected officials accountable.
- Build relationships. Stay in touch with your representatives all the time– not just during the legislative session.
- View our current ways to act and take action for children in Kentucky today.
If you want to know more about how to set up a meeting with your legislator or how to find out who your elected officials are, check out our FAQs for Advocates here.
Yes, my job is to be a child advocate. But I hope you will also become a child advocate whether you are paid to be one or not. I hope you will get involved with Kentucky Youth Advocates to help kids in our state.
All kids deserve to be healthy, live in a safe and loving home, and receive a quality education. Let’s work together to make Kentucky the best place in America to be a kid!
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