Here’s a quick outline that can help you tell your story in a clear and concise way.  When you tell your story, speak (or write) from your heart!

1. Introduce your story
   (2-3 sentences).  Set the stage for your story by providing:
   —Your full name (even if you’ve been introduced)
   —City or town of residence; and
   —Name and ages of the people in your story
   Then state your main message. This tells them why you are about to tell them this story!
   
   
2. Tell your story—CHALLENGE, ACTION, RESULT (4-8 sentences)
   —Explain the CHALLENGE that you face
   —Explain the ACTION that would help you address that challenge
   —Tell what kind of RESULT could be achieved due to the action
   
   
3. Wrap it up! (3-5 sentences)
   —Tell how your result would benefit other families, the community, and the state.
   —State your main message again.
   —Tell them what you want them to do about it.
   —Say thank you!  

If you’ve had experience advocating for the children in your community's schools, we need to hear from you!  E-mail your story to info@parentsunited.org.

Resources

Partners in Policymaking: Making Your Case - Step through this online course on how to communicate with public officials by effectively telling your personal story, writing a letter, providing testimony, and communicating in positive ways. Designed for adults with disabilities and for parents of young children with disabilities, this course is open to everyone. There is no registration fee. Created by the Minnesota Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities.

Preparing to Tell Your Story During the Legislative Session - Minnesota Council of Nonprofits.