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Identify Audience and Modalities
Information: HousingandHomelessnessAlliance
VHFA
VTDigger
WHO will we speak to: Vermont Legislators-Community Members
WHAT modalities will we use: Fundraising/Food Drive-Inform through Social Media and Flyers -
Brainstorm Topics for Civic Engagement Project
Brainstorm list of possible topics for civic involvement. Students will work in pairs to come up with a list of issues that they feel passionate about. They will then come together as a group, and share their list. As a class we will discuss each, and then the students will vote on the issue that they are most interested in. -
Local Government
How can we learn about local government?
We can contact the local city government and the Vermont legislature and ask what they are doing to support unhoused people. We could ask how how we can help. Are there specific needs? Does awareness need to be raised?
CityCouncilSaintAlbans
VermontLegislature
-This will take several days as we make contact and do some research! -
Community and Outreach Connections
What kinds of local supports or connections do we have? homelessshelters
resourcesforhomelesspeople
startingafooddrive -
Utilizing our Strengths and Interests
What skills or special interests do we need?
Communication Skills – Public speaking, persuasive writing, and social media outreach.
Research and Data Analysis
Creative Skills – Designing visuals
Organizational and Planning Skills – Coordinating events and tasks.
Digital and Technological Skills- Using social media, and hosting virtual events.
Advocacy and Policy Knowledge – Writing petitions, communicating with local government
Networking and Relationship-Building
Empathy and Listening Skills -
Create our Headquarters
What is Needed for a Headquarters?
Physical Space: Whiteboards, tables, and creative supplies (markers, paper, tape).
Digital Tools: Google Classroom or Teams, shared calendars, and trackers.
Resources: Research on homelessness, shelter info, and templates for projects.
Planning Tools: Task lists, roles, and visual timelines.
Creative Reflection Areas: Space for posters, campaigns, and progress reflections. -
Family and Community Involvement
Outreach Materials to Engage Family and Friends Flyers: Create eye-catching flyers with campaign goals, ways to help (donations, volunteering), and contact information. Social Media Posts: Share updates and event invitations using hashtags like #EndHomelessness, paired with photos or videos of student efforts. Newsletter Blurb: Include a short summary of the campaign, upcoming events, and how families can contribute in the school newsletter.