Tips on How to Invite Your Elected Official to Your Celebration

A personalized letter is an effective way to invite an elected official to your event during Family Literacy Month. The letter is the most popular choice of communication with a congressional office. Letters that count with policy makers are those that show evidence of thought and commitment. If you decide to write a letter, consider these suggestions as a way to improve your chances.

1. Briefly tell about yourself and your involvement with family literacy. A personal touch is very important.

2. State your purpose for writing in the first paragraph of the letter.
   Ex: Why do you want him/her to attend your event?

3. State specifically what you want the official to do at your event.

4. Be original. Never use a form letter or send copies as originals. Don't worry about typing. Sometimes handwritten letters are best.

5. Be sure to mention if media are expected to attend.

6. Be courteous, to the point, and include key information about where, when, and how you plan to celebrate.

7. Follow-up with the official's appointment secretary.

8. Address your correspondence:

   To a Senator:
   The Honorable (full name)
   United States Senate
   Washington, DC 20510

   To a Representative:
   The Honorable (full name)
   United States House of Representatives
   Washington, DC 20515

   If you have your elected official's local address, it's preferable to send the letter to the local office. Find the local addresses of Senators. and U.S. Representatives.

   For information about Massachusetts legislators, log on to General Court of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

9. If your elected official cannot attend, you may wish to request the attendance of a staff member.

Last Updated: February 6, 2013