April Advocacy Event & Legislative Visits

Welcome to today's event!

Please check in at the registration desk to collect your personalized name tag before getting settled in. Your first session begins promptly at 1 PM, so we recommend arriving with enough time to find your seat and prepare for an engaging afternoon.

This training is designed specifically for Program Leadership (Directors and Management Team Members). This specialized session brings Wisconsin state representatives on-site to facilitate critical conversations about the state of early childhood education in our state. The Wisconsin Office of Head Start Collaboration and other key Wisconsin representatives will lead interactive discussions focused on strengthening our collective voice for Wisconsin's youngest and most vulnerable citizens.

As part of WHSA's commitment to advocacy and strategic partnerships, this training will provide you with essential tools to effectively communicate the impact of Head Start programs throughout Wisconsin. Through collaborative dialogue with policymakers, you will develop strategies to advocate for the children and families we serve throughout the state.

Participant Opportunities:

1. Engage directly with Wisconsin state representatives on early childhood education priorities
2. Learn about current and upcoming legislative initiatives affecting Head Start programs
3. Share program successes and challenges with key decision-makers
4. Network with fellow program leaders to strengthen collective advocacy efforts
5. Contribute to the development of WHSA's advocacy priorities

Join Rachel Peller, Director of Wisconsin Partners, for "Raising Your Voice for Change," a practical workshop designed specifically for parents and Head Start providers eager to create meaningful change. Participants will explore inspiring examples of everyday advocacy success stories, then engage in hands-on practice connecting personal narratives to policy goals in ways that build bridges rather than divisions. This workshop provides essential preparation for legislative visits, offering both practical tools and valuable practice opportunities to effectively communicate your message.

Expected Outcomes:

1. Learn from real-world examples of successful grassroots advocacy
2. Develop skills to connect personal stories to specific policy objectives
3. Practice advocacy techniques that unite rather than divide
4. Gain confidence and preparation for upcoming legislative visits
5. Understand the asset-based, relational approach used by Wisconsin Partners to address root causes

Take a moment to recharge with our afternoon refreshment break. Light snacks and beverages will be provided to help you refuel after our first session.

This is your opportunity to check in with yourself - stretch, reflect on what you've learned, and prepare for the upcoming content. It's also the perfect time to connect with fellow attendees, exchange insights, and build meaningful connections. Return refreshed and ready for our next session at 3:00 PM.

Join presenters Tanya Wooden and Kayla Gardner of Raising Wisconsin for "Advocacy: The Hows and Whys of Head Start Advocacy," a comprehensive workshop covering essential advocacy skills. Participants will learn to craft compelling personal stories, understand ECE advocacy history and the state budget process, develop strategies for engaging families, and build effective partnerships with businesses and community leaders. This session provides practical tools for advocating at all levels to strengthen early childhood education programs.

Expected Outcomes:

1. Develop a framework for sharing your personal Head Start story with elected officials
2. Gain understanding of the state budget process and its impact on ECE funding
3. Learn practical strategies for engaging families in advocacy initiatives
4. Acquire techniques for building successful partnerships with businesses and community leaders

This advocacy training is designed specifically for Program Leadership (Directors and Management Team Members). This specialized session brings Wisconsin state representatives on-site to facilitate critical conversations about the state of early childhood education in our state. The Wisconsin Office of Head Start Collaboration and other key Wisconsin representatives will lead interactive discussions focused on strengthening our collective voice for Wisconsin's youngest and most vulnerable citizens.

As part of WHSA's commitment to advocacy and strategic partnerships, this training will provide you with essential tools to effectively communicate the impact of Head Start programs throughout Wisconsin. Through collaborative dialogue with policymakers, you will develop strategies to advocate for the children and families we serve throughout the state.

Participant Opportunities:

1. Engage directly with Wisconsin state representatives on early childhood education priorities
2. Learn about current and upcoming legislative initiatives affecting Head Start programs
3. Share program successes and challenges with key decision-makers
4. Network with fellow program leaders to strengthen collective advocacy efforts
5. Contribute to the development of WHSA's advocacy priorities

Join us for an evening of meaningful connections at our Networking Reception. This relaxed social event provides the perfect opportunity to connect with fellow Head Start advocates in a comfortable setting. Share your experiences, exchange ideas, and build relationships with others who share your passion for early childhood education.

Light refreshments will be served to enhance this valuable networking experience. Take this time to expand your professional circle and discover potential collaborations that can strengthen our collective impact on the children and families we serve.