Public Policy Partner FAQ

What is a Public Policy Partner?

Public Policy Partners (PPP’s) are individuals, corporations, or health and human service organizations that have a vested interest in and concern for the well-being of children. Collectively, PPP’s seek to enhance the lives of children through the creation or continuation of effective public policy. PPP’s are leaders of child advocacy.

In what ways is Voices for Ohio’s Children (Voices) a partner-driven organization?

In order for Voices to successfully raise awareness and improve the quality of life for children, it is essential that we collaborate with others in order to make the voice for children loud, strong, powerful, and far-reaching. PPP’s serve as a central component of Voices because, without them, Voices would not have the varied influences and resources necessary to improve the lives of children. Voices partners are involved in brainstorming and networking processes that fuel Voices’ agenda.

What advantages do Public Policy Partners receive that are not available to non-partners?

PPP’s receive training on how to advocate for children and updates on public policies on the local, state and federal level. PPP’s also have the opportunity to attend and participate in events, conferences, and legislative briefings at discounted rates, when applicable. Structurally, PPP’s have voting privileges that non-partners do not receive.

What does Voices for Ohio’s Children expect of me/my organization as a Public Policy Partner?

Voices expects individuals and organizations to get involved (to the degree that is comfortable for the partner) in the development of public policy for children’s issues so that Voices has an effective agenda to move forward. Involvement can include, but is not limited to, attending Voices PPP meetings and communicating with legislators. PPP’s are required to pay their annual dues in a timely manner. Voices also expects individuals and organizations to keep Voices informed of issues that they feel are on the horizon in the advocacy landscape.

How will my partnership with Voices directly affect children?

As a PPP you will have input and access to key issues that develop around children. Your participation in advocacy workshops, issue briefings and community forums will directly benefit children and their families by helping to raise public awareness of important matters regarding children.

How will I/my organization be in contact with Voices on a regular basis?

Voices sends an electronic newsletter to the PPP’s and issues policy briefings and legislative updates as necessary via the Voices’ list serv. Voices keeps the PPP’s informed of upcoming conferences and events via the website as the information becomes available.

Will I be expected to attend meetings?

Attendance at the meetings is not mandatory, but your participation is preferable.

How will I be made aware of local, state, and federal policy updates?

Voices often employs an electronic service (listserv) to keep its partners informed, as well as the US Postal Service.

What does advocacy training entail?

Voices supplies local and/or national speakers with varying areas of expertise relative to children’s issues or pending legislation that has an impact on children and their families. Voices produces materials related to the trainings, as well as toolkits that offer detailed strategies on when, where, and how to advocate, as well as who to contact for the best outcome.

What do my annual dues contribute to?

PPP dues are used to partially cover the costs of advocacy workshops, staff, community forums, policy papers, conferences, issue briefings, communications and other operating costs. In addition, since we don’t accept any government funding, these dues allow Voices to be an independent voice for children.

What are the short and long term returns on my investment?

Immediately, you will notice the growth and power of Voices through various workshops and meetings that you will be invited to attend, as well as communications materials that you will receive. Long-term returns on your investment are countless. You/your organization will receive recognition for your cause; witness the building and strengthening of programs, policies, and legislation that enhances the well-being of children; know first-hand how children are being helped; and watch the promise of future generations grow as children become stronger.

How am I connected with other Public Policy Partners?

PPP’s have countless opportunities to connect through attendance at year round meetings, community briefings, advocacy workshops and conferences.

Are there networking tools in place that will allow me to share advocacy opportunities with Voices and other Public Policy Partners?

The electronic newsletter is currently the most effective means to transmit information via the Voices Network.