The Power of Advocacy: Influencing State Policies and Funding in NH

Start Time: 1:30 pm

End Time: 2:30 pm

Speakers: Jess Wojenski and Emma Sevigny

This workshop will equip participants with the knowledge and resources to engage in state-level advocacy efforts around proposed legislation and funding that directly impact suicide prevention efforts in New Hampshire. 2025 is a budget year in NH, and this training will provide an overview of the state legislature, the budget process, and how YOU can get involved in advocating for proposed initiatives that impact our communities. You’ll receive practical advice on participating in public hearings, reaching out to legislators, using media, and other advocacy strategies. You’ll leave feeling more empowered to take action and influence the future of suicide prevention policies and funding in our state.

Session Objectives:

Recognize the process for how a bill becomes a law in NH and identify when and how to engage in the process to influence proposed legislation.
Write an effective and concise advocacy message on an issue or specific bill.
Perform advocacy activities during the next legislative session, including participating in a public hearing, contacting legislators, or submitting an opinion piece to the newspaper.

Speakers’ Bios: Jess Wojenski manages New Futures training program, organizing and delivering trainings both statewide and virtually for organizations, nonprofits, and individuals interested in advocating for policy change in NH. Jess has delivered over 100 trainings in her time at New Futures, and has been a member of the Community Engagement team supporting and mobilizing advocates to participate in the legislative process since 2018.