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Proclamations
Proclamations from your governor or mayor are another way to get the message out locally about #NationalEnergyAssistanceDay. They can generate local buzz and excitement about the campaign and allow you to tailor the messaging to your specific program.
For example, you can work with the governor’s office to designate January 31st as “Wisconsin Energy Assistance Day” or work with a mayor’s office to draft a proclamation for “Milwaukee Energy Assistance Day.” Example proclamation from Minnesota.
If you wish to pursue a proclamation for #NationalEnergyAssistanceDay, start early. Many gubernatorial and mayoral offices take time to process and publish proclamations, sometimes going back and forth with requesters about edits, language, and questions. For example, the Minnesota governor’s office recommends at least 20 business days to process proclamation requests, while for Virginia it is a 45 day minimum.
Most often, gubernatorial and mayoral offices already have sample language or preferred formats for proclamations. Adhering to these templates, prepare language about the importance of LIHEAP in helping families afford their energy bills and some key data about the households you serve in your state. Sometimes, a staff member may have you send over general information about the day and your organization and they will draft the proclamation themselves.
Proclamations usually do not automatically renew. If you want to have your governor or mayor make an annual proclamation, you will likely need to resubmit the request each year.
If the proclamation request for the governor’s or mayor’s office is successful, think about how you will generate media attention around the event to highlight the importance of the day. Invite local media to the event. Take photos and videos and share on social media. Follow up with the media and provide them a copy of the proclamation along with any photos or videos so that they can run a story about energy assistance day in your locale.