WFCO Grows Statewide Network of Advocates for Women, Families
WFCO Hosts Advocacy Trainings Across the State in 2019, More Planned for 2020
In July, we announced a plan to grow our statewide network of advocates for women and families. What a great few months it’s been!
The Foundation hosted four in-person “Advocating for Impact” trainings in Boulder, Colorado Springs, Northern Colorado, and Pueblo. Additionally, we hosted one virtual training that included participants from Parker, Estes Park, and the Denver Metro area. At each training, attendees focused on several advocacy tactics, including:
- Telling their stories on camera around paid family and medical leave or child care that can be shared
- Building tangible skills such as writing to their legislators, power mapping, making calls, and practicing lobby visits
- Submitting public comments to the state
An Overwhelmingly Positive Response and Dozens of Actions Taken
What I really enjoyed about the advocacy training was the opportunity to engage in advocacy right there and then. We wrote postcards, called our representatives, and role played what is helpful to say if we meet with our legislators. We even told our stories on camera and the women in my group bonded over our shared experiences. It was powerful and exactly what I needed. – Northern Colorado training attendee
Not surpisingly, WFCO supporters jumped right in on becoming advocates for women and their families and took meaningful action. For instance, over 200 people registered. At the trainings, attendees submitted 103 public comments, sent over 100 hand-written notes, and made dozens of calls to lawmakers. From WFCO staff’s perspective, the most powerful part of each training was witnessing the passion for WFCO’s work and participants connecting through storytelling.
Amy’s Experience in Colorado Springs
Amy from Colorado Springs shared her advocacy training experience in Colorado Springs.
“Advocating for Impact was my first encounter with WFCO and highlights its relevance and importance in Colorado! The training was well attended and very well organized. A mix of training, group discussion, and direct action allowed attendees of different experience levels to jump in, take direct action, and leave feeling empowered to continue their efforts after the training. The passion and commitment of WFCO staff members was contagious; their smarts impressive.
In my life and work, I’ve seen very few big or important things get accomplished without some form of advocacy. I’m encouraged — and grateful — WFCO is helping women in Colorado more effectively raise their voices for the things that matter to them and their families.”
More Opportunities to Become Advocates for Women in 2020
Join us for an upcoming advocacy engagement opportunity in more cities across the state next year.
- January 16, 2020 – We will be holding our Advocating for Impact training in Denver, click here to register.
- March 5, 2020 – Save the date for our third annual Lobby Day on March 5, 2020 at the State Capitol! It’s going to be an exciting session for women and families. Registration will open in 2020.
Stay tuned for future engagement opportunities by signing up for WFCO emails.
