Step 1: Preparing to Contact Your Congressperson
 

• Gather your materials: You’ll want to gather important information about your child’s needs and challenges, the laws or programs you’re advocating for, and specific changes or support you are requesting.

• Research your congressperson’s stance: Understand your congressperson’s position on disability rights, special education, and family support. This will help you tailor your message.

• Decide how you’ll contact them: You can reach out by phone, email, or letter, or attend a town hall or personal meeting. Personal visits are most impactful, followed by calls and emails.

 

Step 2: Script for Phone or Email
 
Subject (Email): Support for Families of Children with Special Needs

Introduction: Hello [Congressperson's Name],
My name is [Your Name], and I am a constituent from [Your City, State]. I am also a parent of a child with special needs, and I am writing to you today on behalf of my child and others in our community who require your support.

Personal Story: My child, [Your Child’s Name], has [briefly describe your child’s condition, diagnosis, or special need—such as autism, Down syndrome, or learning disabilities]. While we are grateful for the progress we’ve made with their education and care, we continue to face significant challenges that impact their future success and overall well-being.

Issue/Concern: I am deeply concerned about [briefly describe the specific issue—such as lack of special education funding, problems with access to services, or insufficient support for caregivers]. The [current policy/legislation, e.g., IDEA funding, Medicaid cuts, special education staffing] is crucial for my child’s continued growth and development, and any reduction in support would have devastating consequences for families like mine.

Ask: I am asking you to please support [specific legislation or policy you want them to advocate for, e.g., full funding for the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), increased Medicaid funding, or expansion of special education services]. These programs are lifelines for families like mine, and we need your leadership to ensure that our children have the resources they need to thrive.

Closing: Thank you so much for your attention to this matter. I would be grateful for any steps you can take to support families of children with special needs. I would be happy to provide further information or meet with you to discuss this issue in more detail.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Email]
[Your Phone Number]
 

Step 3: Guidelines for a Personal Visit or Phone Call

If you're meeting or calling your congressperson or their office, follow these guidelines:
 

1. Introduce yourself: Mention your name, where you live, and that you're a parent of a child with special needs in their district.
   Example:
   "Hi, my name is [Your Name], and I’m from [Your City, State]. I’m also a parent of a child with special needs, and I’m here today to talk to you about an issue that’s very important to our family."

2. Tell your personal story: Share your child’s challenges and how current or proposed policies impact them.
   Example:
   "My child, [Child’s Name], has [condition]. We’ve worked hard to access the services they need, but we face difficulties because [specific challenge]. The support we receive from [program, e.g., IDEA, Medicaid] makes all the difference, and we’re worried about what will happen if it’s reduced."

3. Be clear with your request: Ask for their support on specific legislation or policies.
   Example:
   "I’m asking you to please support full funding for IDEA so that children like mine can get the education they deserve. Reducing this funding would make it even harder for families like mine to provide the necessary care."

4. Thank them and follow up: Thank them for their time, and ask if there’s anything more they need from you.
   Example:
   "Thank you for taking the time to listen to my concerns. Please feel free to reach out if you need any more information, and I would love to know how you plan to move forward on this issue."

 

Step 4: Tips for Effective Advocacy
 

• Be concise: Whether you’re emailing or speaking in person, keep your message brief and to the point. Focus on your story and your specific ask.

• Stay respectful and professional: Even if you’re frustrated with current policies, being polite will make a better impression.

• Offer to be a resource: Let them know you’re available for further questions or to share more details about your situation.

• Follow up: After your initial contact, follow up with an email or another call to check on progress or to thank them for their support.