For many busy nonprofits, getting involved in public policy through advocacy may seem overwhelming. But it doesn’t have to be. The 2011 Northern Virginia Hunger Summit is an opportunity for you to see how simple, yet powerful public policy can be. The one-day summit will be held Friday, September 30, 2011 at the First Baptist Church of Alexandria. You will learn the tools you need to reach out to decision makers and make a difference in your community.
While this isn’t our first hunger summit, it is our first time doing an advocacy training at this level and we are very excited. This year’s summit will not only be a great opportunity to learn about policy, but will also be an opportunity to meet special guests Ken Cuccinelli, Attorney General of Virginia; Frank Wolf, Virginia Congressman; Gerry Connolly, Virginia Congressman; and a staff member for Mary Cheh, DC Councilmember. Representatives from the United States Department of Agriculture and Bread for the World will also attend.
At the summit you will learn the importance of establishing relationships with legislators, how to deliver testimony, strategies for developing your policy plans and how to incorporate lobbying into your organizational mission. Sessions at the summit will include “Planning your Public Policy Campaign,” “Developing a Passion for Public Policy,” “Lobbying is Not a Four-Letter Word” and “Food Co-ops for Sustainable Change.”
While the event is free, you must register to attend. Please click here to register. The event will begin at 8:30am. We hope to see you at this one-of-a-kind event!