At a recent branch event in Nova Scotia, Federal Retirees volunteers Cathy Lively (left) and Brenda Allard (right) connected with MP Andy Fillmore.
Last year, the Nova Scotia Central Branch planning committee considered ideas for events as part of their 60th anniversary celebrations . They wanted to plan something new and fun, that members would want to attend and that combined the social aspect of branch activities with advocacy and member recruitment.
After careful consideration, the committee decided to host a summer meet-and-mingle celebration and recruitment event. It was a resounding success!
Along with branch members, volunteers invited local political representatives from the four ridings located within their branch boundaries, as well as some preferred partners.
“We were delighted our efforts were so successful! Two members of Parliament (MPs) attended, along with staff of the third MP. As a bonus, we now have contact information for several political staff members and can keep them updated on the Association’s work,” said Cathy Lively, who was Nova Scotia Central Branch vice-president at the time.
One such connection between Lively and a member of MP Darrell Samson’s staff resulted in an offer to arrange a meeting for Federal Retirees with the MP, who was then parliamentary secretary to the minister of Veterans Affairs.
This was excellent timing as national office advocacy staff were working to arrange a meeting with MP Samson. As a result, Federal Retirees president Roy Goodall, CEO Anthony Pizzino and advocacy director Sayward Montague met with MP Samson in October — a perfect example of the power of advocacy being done at both the local and national levels.
“Another highlight of the event was having an attendee, who is a veteran, proclaim her excitement over the Women Veterans Research and Engagement Network (WREN) which was featured at the event,” shared Lively.
In terms of advice for fellow volunteers, Nova Scotia Central Branch recommends combining advocacy and branch events for maximum impact and benefit to members.
To help others get started, Lively shared some tips for branches wanting to invite MPs to their events this year:
- We discovered very quickly that indicating that the request came from members voting in their riding was essential.
- It was also beneficial when the committee members could establish a relationship with their own MPs.
- Finally, follow up, follow up and follow up! Also, remember to express thanks for their consideration to your request and their time.
About Advocacy Spotlight
Advocacy Spotlight showcases successful initiatives and projects put forward by our dedicated volunteers and supporters.
The National Association of Federal Retirees has a proud history of advocacy on behalf of our members and all retirees. In collaboration with our volunteers and supporters from coast-to-coast, we continue this tradition of strong, smart advocacy campaigns focused on improvements to the financial security, health and well-being of our members and all Canadians. Our success is not only measured in policy changes and legislation. It grows with every meaningful discussion with parliamentarians, and with every email and letter written. Together, we are achieving and surpassing our strategic advocacy goals and targets every day.