The second PACE session titled Accessing Government was held recently for the 24 participants enrolled in PACE (People’s Academy for Community Engagement). Facilitated by Seattle City Councilmember Sally Bagshaw; King County Councilmember Larry Gossett, and PACE alum Amanda Kay Hemlick, here are the key tips shared with the group:

• Reach out to your elected officials! It may take more than one e-mail or phone call but it is an important connection.
• Think about and decide if it is best to contact a department director, a city council member, the mayor, a county council member or someone else. Your issue, idea or concern should be directed at the right official.
• Rally your neighbors.
• Connect with community resources like your libraries, community centers, community pools, existing community groups.
• Come with suggestions!

The PACE cohort meets monthly to learn civic leadership techniques and approaches. Look for tips from the next session titled “Community Organizing.”