We know how hard you worked in August. But, as members of Congress return to Washington, the fight for reform is more important than ever. We hope these tools and tactics will continue to help you.

Media Strategies

• Letters to the Editor
  Add your personal touch to these sample letters. Your local paper will have specific instructions on how to submit a letter, so be sure to check with your opinion page editors.
  
  
• Op-Eds
  The opinion pages are one of the most popular sections of newspapers across the country. A letter here goes a long way. Read these tips to help increase the chances of your letter getting published.
  
  
• Editorial Board Meetings
  This is your opportunity to make an impression on your newspaper editors and health reporters. Make the most of it with these meeting pointers.
  
  
• Radio Talk Shows
  As progressives, we need to amplify our voices through the power of talk radio. Find a list of nationally syndicated and local radio shows, talking points, and call-in tips here.

Web Strategies

• Blog Posts
  Blogging has exploded! More and more people are looking to blogs for editorialized news updates, and for advocacy organizations, it's a way to stay connected to your audience.  Blogging: Best Practices  l  Sample Blog Post 
  
  
• Ticker Button
  Count every single person who loses health coverage until the President signs health reform. Further a sense of urgency by embedding the ticker on your Web site or favorite social networking site.
  
  
• Facebook & Twitter
  Get online during the recess to expand your base and stay up-to-date on the latest health care reform happenings. Learn how state groups are expanding their reach through online advocacy.

Events

• House Party
  Invite your family, friends, and neighbors! House parties are one of the best—and most fun—ways to get people talking about health reform. On this page, you'll find tips and a discussion guide for your next party.
  
  
• Legislative Visits
  "Thank you for taking the time to meet with us today…" Now what? Use these talking points to make convincing arguments. This "leave behind" will also help build the case that reform cannot wait.
  
  
• Letter Writing Campaign
  Pen and paper might seem old fashioned, but a personalized letter is one of the best ways to influence a member of Congress. Here are some tips to help you get started.  
  
  
• Calling Congress
  Call early, call often, and call for free! Encourage your networks to use these talking points and the toll-free number. Simply pick up the phone to help shape the political discussion.
  
  
• Story Banking
  There’s no better way to put a "human face" on the complexities of health reform than personal stories. Almost everyone has a story to tell—either their own or the story of someone they love.
  
  
• Health Reform Fliers (for county fairs, festivals, community events)
  Ferris wheels, cotton candy, and health reform booths! The “Just Imagine…” series of fliers allows you to get people thinking about health reform in a way that is fun—and understandable! Flier 1  l  Flier 2  l  Flier 3  
  
  
• Town Hall Meetings
  Town halls can be both exciting and overwhelming. Attendees will be bombarded with information, and it’s up to us to steer the conversation back to pro-reform messages. These questions can help you do just that.

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