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Government Relations

PLAN AHEAD

Reach out to municipal, provincial, or federal elected representatives months in advance of a campaign.
Be clear about what you want.
Work with their staff; make sure the staff understand your position so they can explain (and, hopefully, support) it accurately to the elected representative, and to their colleagues.
When meeting with an elected official, make sure a board member, senior volunteer or other supporter is present.

WHAT DO YOU WANT TO ACHIEVE?

?	To inform the official about (topic/issue/campaign) and your planned activities.
?	To inform them about the work that you perform in your community and its impact.
?	To ensure they understand the value of Homeshare.
?	To make them aware of the impact of their policies on Homeshare and the people in your community.
?	To develop a good working relationship so that your programme can be a source of information about issues related to Homeshare.
?	Other…

Provide elected officials with the information they need to make good decisions that affect Homeshare.

TO DO:

? Know what issues they make policy on or can influence.

? Make yourself aware of elected officials’ positions on issues that affect Homeshare in your area.

? Be flexible if you are meeting with an elected official. Their schedule may change on short notice.

? Prepare a concise one-page handout summarizing your main points.

? Explain the impact of their government’s policies and programs on Homeshare.