Volunteer Legislative Ambassador

Consistent with the mission of eliminating poverty housing, Twin Cities Habitat launched its nonpartisan advocacy effort in January of 2008.    Through mobilizing volunteer advocates around these guiding principles at the national, state and local level TCHFH has worked to change systems and increase access to safe affordable housing.

Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity advocacy guiding principles are to: 

• Grow the number of elected officials who are advocates for affordable housing
• Increase the production and preservation of affordable housing in Minnesota
• Prevent foreclosures
• Support federal policy initiatives that assist Habitat affiliates nationwide
• Pursue global poverty reduction initiatives  

Committee Purpose:  To represent Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity in each legislative district throughout the seven county metro service area.

Committee Activities:

• Serve as team leader at Habitat on the Hill events
• Cover legislative hearings and committee meetings
• Testify at committee hearings related to housing issues when appropriate
• Accompany Habitat Government Relations Associate to individual Legislator meetings
• Attend local political events and represent Habitat on issues relating to housing continuum
• Contribute to Advocacy Blog, Social Media
• Recruit additional advocates
• Provide housing information from your district to Advocacy Department

Legislative Ambassadors will have the latest information on housing issues around the globe, be included in a closed discussion group to share information, and have priority registration to attend  monthly Habitat events. 

Commitment:

Legislative Session January 2012-June 2012

Attend 1 Pre-session Training Event

Attend committee meetings, activities and events averaging 2-5 hours/month 

Outcomes:

• Raise Housing as one of the top 5 Legislative Priorities for Voters and Elected Officials
• Increase the number of advocates for the entire housing continuum

Create a closer connection between elected officials and TCHFH through increased communication and personal contact, thus generating stronger relationships and understanding of the need for housing.