Advocacy is supporting a cause or policy by arguing for, recommending, or championing a particular issue. For Collegiate DECA, this means effectively communicating our organization’s value to key stakeholders—including local and national government leaders—while empowering members to actively promote DECA’s mission. Building on Part One, which focuses on local advocacy, this installment explores ways to expand your reach, including engaging with policymakers and leveraging resources to amplify your voice.
Advocacy at Every Level: Local to National
Engaging Local Government
Local government leaders are influential allies in advocating for DECA. Here’s how to gain their support:
- Host Advocacy Events: Invite city council members, mayors, or other local officials to your chapter events to witness DECA in action.
- Present DECA’s Workforce Impact: Highlight how DECA members contribute to the local economy through internships, job placements and entrepreneurial initiatives.
- Request Proclamations: Work with local leaders to declare "DECA Week" or other recognitions for your chapter.
Resource: Learn how to effectively engage with local government leaders through this National League of Cities guide.
Advocating at the State and Federal Levels
State and national policymakers shape education and workforce policies that directly affect DECA. Here’s how to make your voice heard:
- Meet Your Representatives: Schedule visits or participate in organized advocacy days to discuss how DECA supports education and workforce development.
- Write Letters and Petitions: Encourage members to write letters to state or national legislators, emphasizing DECA’s positive impact.
- Showcase Member Successes: Use data and stories to illustrate how DECA helps prepare students for career and leadership opportunities.
Resource: Visit Congress.gov’s “How to Contact Your Member of Congress” for tips on contacting elected officials.
Partnering with National Organizations
Collaborate with other organizations that share DECA’s goals to amplify your advocacy:
- Business Associations: Work with groups like the U.S. Chamber of Commerce or local small business associations to advocate for workforce development initiatives.
- Education Advocacy Groups: Partner with organizations that support experiential learning and career readiness, such as Advance CTE.
Resource: Explore Advance CTE’s Advocacy Toolkit for strategies to promote career and technical education.
Advocacy Tactics: Persuading Effectively
Storytelling with Data and Personal Impact
Stories inspire action. Pair compelling anecdotes with statistics to create a persuasive message. For example:
- Personal Stories: Share how DECA members have secured internships, jobs, or entrepreneurial success through participation in the program.
- Impact Data: Use DECA’s national statistics from the “Our Impact” page to demonstrate the organization’s broader value.
Tailoring Your Message
Every audience values different aspects of DECA. Customize your approach:
- For Local Leaders: Emphasize community benefits, such as workforce development and entrepreneurship.
- For Legislators: Focus on how DECA supports education policies and workforce goals.
- For Sponsors: Highlight DECA’s ability to connect students with real-world opportunities.
Resource: Use this advocacy guide from the Nonprofit Quarterly to craft targeted messages for different stakeholders.
Sustaining Advocacy Efforts
Empower Your Members as Advocates
- Training Sessions: Teach members public speaking, networking, and advocacy skills.
- Advocacy Teams: Form small groups dedicated to specific advocacy projects, such as engaging local businesses or meeting with state representatives.
Resource: Use Toastmasters International’s Public Speaking Tips to build confidence and clarity in your members’ presentations.
Leverage Technology and Social Media
- Social Media Campaigns: Use platforms like Instagram and LinkedIn to share your chapter’s successes and advocacy efforts.
- Advocacy Letters Online: Create templates for members to email or post on social media, encouraging action.
Resource: Use HubSpot’s Social Media Strategy Guide to design impactful campaigns.
Advocacy is about making your case with passion and purpose. By engaging local and national leaders, partnering with like-minded organizations, and empowering your members, you ensure that DECA’s mission continues to thrive. Let’s argue for, recommend and support Collegiate DECA with conviction—and show the world why we’re a cause worth championing.
