Faith In Our Future: Day of Advocacy

Are you a person of faith interested in advocating for Ohio's children? Learn how your congregation can impact youth well-being at CDF-Ohio's Faith-Based Advocacy Trainings and Lobbying Day!

Our Advocacy Day will be an inspiring and transformative event centered on the theme: "Faith in Our Future: Mobilizing Congregations to Uplift Coming Generations.". This theme emphasizes that various faith groups and denominations share a common belief: that children deserve to grow up in a beloved community with dignity, hope, and joy. During the Advocacy Day, participants will speak with legislators, experience the general assembly, and more.

Prior to the event, participants have the option to engage in a series of three interactive trainings that aim to empower faith-based communities with the knowledge and resources necessary to make a meaningful impact on child well-being within their localities. Trainings will include thought-provoking discussions, and networking opportunities designed to equip them with practical tools and innovative strategies. While the training sessions are optional, participants who attend 2 out of 3 training sessions and the Advocacy Day will receive a certificate of recognition for completion of the program.

Info: Our event kickoff is designed to help you harness your passion and transform it into impactful advocacy. This training invites you to delve deep into the questions: "Why do you care about this?" and "Why do you want to be involved?". These pivotal reflections form the foundation of effective advocacy, allowing you to connect your personal stories to broader societal issues. Throughout this interactive session, you'll learn how to articulate your experiences and motivations into compelling narratives that resonate with others.

Info: Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with advocacy leaders through interactive breakout discussions, gaining valuable insights and practical strategies to effectively address the unique challenges faced by children and youth today. This training offers a comprehensive overview of critical topics such as youth justice, prenatal care, and grassroots organizing.

Info: This training session, designed specifically for faith leaders seeking to make a positive impact through legislative advocacy, will provide you with the tools and knowledge necessary to effectively engage with policymakers and advocate for your community's values and needs. During this training, you will learn how to conduct thorough legislative research, how to read and understand bills, how to craft compelling testimony, and more.

Info: This dynamic gathering offers a unique opportunity for faith activists to connect in person, fostering a community of like-minded individuals committed to advocacy. Among other things, participants will have the opportunity to engage directly with Ohio legislators, ensuring that their voices are heard on critical issues impacting their communities.

Host or Publisher Children's Defense Fund- Ohio