SPEAKING TO ELECTED OFFICIALS 1. Always be courteous and respectful, but avoid being 'gushy' or overly flattering. 2.

When speaking at Shelby County Work Sessions or Business Meetings, youll need to state your name and address. Be prepared to speak for 1-3 minutes. The length of time will depend on how many speakers are scheduled during the Public Comment section. State any personal experience (For example: Im a parent of 3 SCS kids, member of PTA, mentor, coach, etc.) or professional credentials you may have, especially those pertaining to the policy youre advocating for or against. 3. Tell YOUR story! Provide specific, rather than general, information about how the topic affects you, your children, your family, etc. 4. Clearly state what it is you want done or recommend a course of action. 5. Thank the official for taking the time to listen. 6. Don't let your passion get in the way of making your point. Simply stated, NEVER use vulgarity, profanity or threats. 7. Always be mindful that you want something from them- their vote in support of your position. You need their advocacy. BE NICE! 8. Remind them that youll ALWAYS remember their support on this critical issue! (Theyll instinctively know that what you really mean is that youll never forget if they dont support your position!)

SAMPLE LETTER Dear Commissioner XXXXXX, XXXXX XXXXX Sincerely and gratefully, NAME ADDRESS BEST PHONE # TO REACH YOU Email Address)

SUCCESSFUL LETTER WRITING TO ELECTED OFFICIALS 9. Always be courteous and respectful, but avoid being 'gushy' or overly flattering. 10. Clearly and simply state the purpose of your letter. If it's about a certain bill, identify it correctly. 11. Identify yourself. Anonymous letters go nowhere. Even in email, include your correct name, address, phone number and email address. If you don't include at least your name and address, you will not get a response. 12. State any professional credentials or personal experience you may have, especially those pertaining to the subject of your letter. 13. Keep your letter short -- one page letters are best. 14. Tell YOUR story! Provide specific rather than general information about how the topic affects you and others. 15. Be sure to address your letter correctly. 16. Use specific examples or evidence to support your position. 17. Clearly state what it is you want done or recommend a course of action. 18. Thank the official for taking the time to read your letter. 19. Don't let your passion get in the way of making your point. Simply stated, NEVER use vulgarity, profanity or threats. 20. Always be mindful that you want something from them- their vote in support of your position. You need their advocacy. BE NICE! 21. Remind them that youll ALWAYS remember their support on this critical issue! (Theyll instinctively know that what you really mean is that youll never forget if they dont support your position!)