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PAWL Video

A movie about people and families on the PA Waiting List.

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ADVOCACY TOOL KIT
Letter Writing Tips

 
Advocacy quick tips
Do you know your rights?
Our legislative message
contact your representatives
Who to call top 10

 

  • Keep it brief
  • Personalize it, by telling your story
  • Include a photo
  • Enlist their help

  • Offer to meet with them
  • Offer your assistance
  • Say "THANK YOU"
  • Be direct but cordial

Here is a sample letter.
Parenthesis ( ) mark the suggested text.

Date

John or Jane Doe
222 East Main Street
Somewhere, PA 99999-0000

Dear Sir or Madamn (___________),

On behalf of my (child, brother, sister, friend) who is registered with the Office of Mental Retardation, I am requesting a meeting to discuss how we can work together to (better the services and supports currently being received.) (to develop a plan for services and supports to be delivered.)

My (son, daughter, friend, etc.) (name), is (a 40 year old man) who is in need of (additional) services. As a citizen of this Commonwealth, it is important that (he/she) has the necessary supports, and is given the opportunity to live and participate fully in the community.

I look forward to meeting with you to discuss possible solutions to improving the quality of services and supports for my (child, brother, sister, friend)

Please feel free to contact me with any questions or concerns. Thank you for your (continued) support in this matter.

Sincerely,
John Q. Public
100 Percent Drive
Yourtown, PA 88888-0000
(1-333-999-9999)

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