Advocacy 101

Issue 9.15

April 21, 2023

EPISODE 10 | IT'S ROOTED IN A STORY

FEATURING SEN. SARAH MCBRIDE & VERNA HENSLEY

On the latest episode of Conversations with Kelly, we sat down with Senator Sarah McBride and Verna Hensley, the vice president of public affairs at Easterseals Delaware and Maryland's Eastern Shore, to discuss how to effectively get in touch with busy elected officials, and how advocates—for businesses or otherwise—can work with legislators for positive changes. We also explored the power of storytelling in advocacy, and why building relationships with your policymakers could be easier than you think.

Listen on your favorite streaming platform >

Watch the episode >

Keep the conversation going >

ADVOCACY IS BUILT ON RELATIONSHIPS

CONVERSATION REFLECTIONS

By Kelly Basile

It all comes down to relationships. Building real connections is the key to progress—and that is done when we sit down together and listen. This is not a new concept, but it can be intimidating if you don’t know where to start.

I loved this latest conversation on the State Chamber’s podcast so much that when I heard it back this week, I found myself taking notes—even though I was the moderator of the original conversation! Here are my key takeaways:

1. Build relationships before you need something

2. Get to know policymakers in and outside your district

3. Find things you both can agree on

4. Balance facts and data with empathy and compassion

PUT YOUR ADVOCACY SKILLS TO WORK

SMALL BUSINESS DAY IN DOVER | THURSDAY, MAY 4

Learn why Delaware's small business community's presence in Dover is crucial and how you as a small business leader can get more involved.

Learn about the most important issues this legislative session
Hold educated conversations with Delaware's decision makers
Attend the House Small Business Caucus meeting
Put your advocacy skills to work and meet with your organization’s legislators

President's Message

2050 seems like a long way off, but it will come sooner than we realize. To feed a growing world population, experts suggest we’ll have to increase food production by a whopping 68%. With more people expected to be defined as middle class, we could witness growing demand for meat over grains, legumes, and wheat. The increased demand for meat also presents challenges for the planet. Read more >

PHOTOS OF THE WEEK

The Delaware Young Professionals Network gathered for an insightful panel discussion and workshop on what it really means to be an entrepreneur, and how it can be applied in all settings.