Advocate

Sometimes, the most powerful way to get involved is to speak up.

Policy change can be big or small. It can be petitioning your school board to require healthier cafeteria meals. It can be urging your government to make child tax credits permanent or making more children eligible for health insurance. It can also be mobilizing your contacts to speak out on a critical cause, in person or online.

United Way Emerald Coast galvanizes people to speak out for change. We're amplifying individuals' voices on important community issues by providing a platform to take meaningful action that really makes a difference.

 

What does it mean to advocate?

To advocate is to support or speak in favor of something and it's a powerful tool that we all have. It means standing up for others and what you believe in your heart. Advocacy is crucial to our success as a community. When you advocate for United Way Emerald Coast, you show your support for the common good. We invite you to be part of the change by speaking up to influence the condition of all.

You may advocate by word of mouth - telling your friend, neighbor, colleague, or family member that you support United Way. Some people will advocate by simply wearing the LIVE UNITED t-shirt (want one? Just ask!). Others will follow us on social media and share important updates. Some advocates will speak up at a community forum about how we can build a better, stronger, healthier Emerald Coast. Anyone can champion our cause. As a community advocate, a little effort can go a long way towards making a difference in our community.

 

Ready to get involved?

It's easier than you think! We provide a nonpartisan platform for people to take meaningful action that makes a difference. You can start by signing up for legislative alerts. Calling, emailing, or even tweeting your representative can help us spread the word about the changes our community needs. We need your voice, your passion, and above all your willingness to help us improve lives by sharing your United Way experience with others. We partner on a state-wide Florida United Way Consensus Legislative Agenda which represents the collective voice of 28 United Ways throughout the state of Florida. We also work with United Way Worldwide on key federal issues. Understand more about our public policy priorities through the links below.

 

Register to vote or update your record!

Gain a deeper understanding of United Way of America's Public Policy and Advocacy Efforts here.

Read the 2021 Florida United Way Consensus Legislative Agenda

Sign up for United Way of Florida's Legislative Link and view past reports

Find Your Elected Officials

Meet Your Commissioners - Okaloosa County

Meet Your Commissioners - Walton County