Advocacy and You: A Lesson plan
This lesson plan was developed from the work of Episcopal Appalachian Ministries, and a resource entitled, “The Advocacy Process in Episcopal Appalachian Ministries” was heavily used.

As in all lesson plans, “Sessions” are relative, and lessons may be lengthened or shortened as time allows. Also, please edit and add to this document as you see fit, sending copies of change or altered information to EAM for inclusion into our own outline.

You may download the whole lesson as a word document Here.

Contents:
1. What is advocacy and why are we called to do it?
2. Handout: Ways to get Involved
3. Choosing a focus
4. Handout: Doing the Research
5. Creating a plan
6. Implementation
7. Respectful Communication Guidelines
8. Guidelines for Writing a Resolution

Guidance for writing a Resolution

From the United Nations website:

1. Be sure to follow the format for resolutions provided by the conference or convention organizers. For Example, in the Diocese of Southern Ohio:
1. Please submit resolutions in electronic data format, preferably a word processing file attached to an e-mail.
2. A resolution should include the subject at the top. The resolved part should state the who, what and when. The explanation states the why. If there are budget implications to the resolution, check with the person responsible for the line item to get approval or explain how funding would be secured.
2. Create a detailed resolution.  For example, if your resolution calls for a new program, think about how it will be funded and what body will manage it.
3. Be realistic. Do not create objectives for your resolution that cannot be met. Make sure your body can take the action suggested.
4. Try to find multiple sponsors. Your committee will be more likely to approve the resolutions if many delegates contribute ideas.
5. Use historic justifications for action.  Cite past resolutions, precedents and statements about the purpose of action.
6. Make sure to explain what the committee will do to address the issue I the resolution passes.

Sample Resolution:

A resolution directing that each vestry/mission council prepare a statement of stewardship.
Resolved, that each Vestry and Mission Council of the Diocese of Southern Ohio prepare a Statement of
Stewardship which clearly commits its members to prayerful and thoughtful giving; and be it further
Resolved, that such Statements of Stewardship be prepared and presented to their respective congregations by All Saints’ Day of 2005.

Explanation
The Vestry or Mission Council is responsible for providing temporal leadership of its congregation and should set a positive example for those committed to its charge.

Impact on God’s Vision in the Diocese of Southern Ohio
Explain how passage of this resolution will enable us of the Diocese of Southern Ohio to embrace the calling God has set before us through the Great Commission. (Matthew 28:18-20)

Presented by:
(Individual’s name and church or committee or commission)

Financial and Program Impact Summary

Budgetary Impact: Actual cost, source of funds, and if from Operating Budget, is it approved.

Program Impact: What is the intended action? Who is responsible to implement? How will this action relate to existing programs?