NASW Arizona Legislative, Education & Advocacy Day (LEAD)

Join us for our annual Legislative, Educataion, and Advocacy Day (LEAD). This will be a 2 part series as we're joining our colleagues across the country to launch the new R.I.S.E. Campaign School - Running for Impact, Social Workers for Equity – a two-day training series dedicated to empowering social workers and mental health advocates to step into political leadership. Through this program, we aim to equip social workers with the skills and insights needed to create meaningful change in our communities.

Please note there will need to be separate training times to accomidate everyone. Tickets are based on the training schedule, please register accordingly. If you wish to join the virtual 1 day event & the in-person day at the legisalture, select the 2 Day ticket option. If you're only wishing to attend 1 day, select the appropriate ticket option for either the virtual or in-person event.

Educating the next generation of advocates is core to our values as a profession and chapter. Each year, we host our annual Legislative Education & Advocacy Day (LEAD) which brings together hundreds of social work students and professionals from across the state.

LEAD is designed to further social workers’ knowledge of the legislative process, grassroots advocacy, and major current statewide policy initiatives. Attendees hear from an array of passionate speakers from elected officials, the government sector, community organizers, and advocates.

As this event does require a lot of staff planning with elected officials and the time of our contract lobbyists, there is a slight fee to cover expenses of the day and secure your attendance. Additionally, snacks and refreshments will be provided throughout the day.

As we are planing meetings with elected officials to discuss our legislative agenda, we do expect you to arrive and attend meetings based on your ticketed registration.

If you have questions, email Brandie at [email protected].

Tentative Agenda for the in-person day at the captiol on Saturday, Feburary 15th (Virtual) 6 CEs (1.5 Ethics) *Note all times are EST, NOT Arizona

Introduction & Expectations: Setting the Stage for Political Leadership (9:00 - 9:30 AM EST) .5 CE

• Overview of the program and goals for the two days.
• Reflection - What is your “why”? Vision board/initial goals/etc.
• Importance of social work in politics, Code of Ethics.
• Setting personal learning objectives and networking opportunities.

Social Work & Campaign Basics 101: Your Pathway to Public Office (9:30 - 10:30 AM) 1CEU

• Introduction to running for office: what it takes.
• Why social workers are uniquely suited for public office.
• Overview of campaign basics: strategy, planning, and timelines.
• Key political roles social workers can pursue (elected office, advisory positions, etc.).

Fundraising Fundamentals: Building Financial Support with Integrity (10:45 - 11:45 AM EST) 1 CEU

• Building a fundraising strategy: grassroots vs. major donors.
• Understanding campaign finance laws.
• Social work values in fundraising efforts.
• Utilizing social networks and professional contacts.
• Lunch Break - 11:45 - 12:15 PM EST
  Communication Part 1: Crafting Your Message & Navigating Conversations(12:15 - 1:15 PM EST) 1 CEU
  
• Developing a clear and persuasive political message.
• Aligning personal values and campaign goals.
• Navigating challenging political conversations and opposition.
• Tailoring communication to different audiences (voters, media, colleagues).

Relational Organizing & Building Movements: Mobilizing for Change (1:30 - 2:30 PM EST) 1 CEU

• The power of relational organizing and community building.
• Mobilizing supporters and building coalitions.
• Leading grassroots movements with a social work lens.
• Connecting with local organizations and community groups.
  

Elected Official/Social Worker Panel: Ethics & Insights (2:30 - 4:00 PM EST) 1.5 Ethics CEU:

• Insights from social workers who have run for or held office.
• Challenges and rewards of being a social worker in politics.
• Practical tips on navigating campaigns and public office.
• Q&A session on experiences, strategies, and lessons learned.

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Tentative Agenda for the (2nd) in-person day at the captiol on Monday, March 3rd:

Group 1 (Note, this even is in-person at the capitol ONLY, no virtual option):

9:15am – Registration/Check-in

9:30am – Welcome/Legislative 101

10:00am – Policy Briefing/Letters for Elected Officials

10:30 – Meetings with Legislators/Drop-off packets/letters to legislators/RTS

*After meeting with elected officials you may stay and watch committee and floor hearings

Group 2 (Note, this even is in-person at the capitol ONLY, no virtual option):

10:45am – Registration/Check-in

11:00am – Welcome/Legislative 101/

11:30am – Policy Briefing/Letters for Elected Officials

12:00pm – Meetings with Legislators/Drop-off packets/letters to legislators/RTS

*After meeting with elected officials you may stay and watch committee and floor hearings

Group 3 (Note, this even is in-person at the capitol ONLY, no virtual option):

1:00pm – Registration/Check-in

1:15pm – Welcome/Legislative 101/

1:45pm – Policy Briefing/Letters for Elected Officials

2:15pm – Meetings with Legislators/Drop-off packets/letters to legislators/RTS

*After meeting with elected officials you may stay and watch committee and floor hearings

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Arizona Capitol Museum, 1700 West Washington Street, Phoenix, United States