Advocacy 101

Learn about advocacy and where to get started.

What is Advocacy?

Advocacy encompasses a range of activities that seek to build relationships and influence actions in Congress. It involves communicating with your elected officials to shape their priorities, including how they allocate funding.  

At Global Ties U.S., advocacy means championing public diplomacy and international exchange programs.

Our nationwide network of member organizations and supporters plays a vital role in educating Members of Congress on how the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) and other exchange programs strengthen our national security and bring economic benefits to communities across the United States.

To learn more about what advocacy is, and how to get started, Global Ties Network members can access resources linked below. 

Getting Started with Advocacy (login required) 

  • Advocacy Virtual Workshops
    Each year, Global Ties U.S. hosts a virtual advocacy workshop for Global Ties Network members to help prepare for Advocacy Day. The session includes a review of how the appropriations process works in Congress, key advocacy messages, and best practices for engaging with elected officials. 

    • Access the recording of the 2024 workshop HERE.
    • Access the slides from the 2025 workshop HERE.
  • Advocacy Toolkit
    This comprehensive guide supports Global Ties Network advocacy for international exchange and public diplomacy programs. It includes background information, best practices, tips and templates, and more. 

    • Access the toolkit HERE.
  • Advocacy Course: “GOVT 100: Federal Advocacy & Understanding the Legislative Branch”
    This self-paced course takes a deep dive into the U.S. legislative branch, covering how the U.S. budget is made, as well as reviewing how constituents can engage with their Members of Congress. It includes real advocacy examples from around the Global Ties Network. 

    • Access the full course HERE.
  • Share Your Story
    The stories and experiences of constituents carry a lot of weight with congressional offices. Global Ties U.S. invites Network members and supporters to share how international exchange programs have made a difference in their lives and communities. These stories are featured in our advocacy materials and updates to demonstrate local impact to policymakers. 

    • Share the impact of exchange HERE.
  • Advocacy Resources
    This curated collection of tools helps Global Ties Network members and supporters engage their communities and elected officials. It includes outreach materials, templates, and guidance to support advocacy for international exchange programs. 

    • Access the resources page HERE.

Questions?

Please contact Advocacy@GlobalTiesUS.org.