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Advocacy is…

Working to influence policy decisions, change public opinion, and transform systems that lead to the creation and preservation of safe, decent, and affordable housing for all. Effective advocacy realigns power and promotes practical housing policy solutions. Advocacy relies on specific legislative “calls” to action.

Why HFH-MC advocates...

It will take Habitat for Humanity affiliates 5,536 years to solve the current problem across the nation by building one house at a time. We cannot fulfill our mission simply by building Habitat houses alone. Through nonpartisan advocacy, we can work toward affordable housing community-wide.

Through advocacy:

  • > We reach more families in need. For example, an affordable housing advocacy campaign might promote more funding for housing trust funds or secure tenure, thereby enabling more people to move out of inadequate housing.
  • > We find solutions to complex problems. By working to influence governmental agenda, corporate behavior, or public policy we are able to tackle complicated housing issues that could not be dealt with solely through Habitat for Humanity programs.
  • > We defend community needs. Habitat has insight into community issues through neighborhood volunteers, homeowner families, donors, and business partners. By partnering with our constituents, we can communicate local views to policy makers.

Advocacy is:

  • > Participating in short-term activities to reach a long-term vision of policy changes.
  • > Drawing community attention to an issue, building support, and directing policy makers toward a solution.
  • > Developing strategies to shape decision-making at the organization, local, state, national, and international levels.

Advocacy is not:

  • > Increasing an organization’s budget
  • > Providing information, education, and communication without a call to action.
  • > Raising awareness about Habitat for Humanity and its affiliates
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FAQ Advocacy Questions