Resolve to Advocate for Kids

How one TCH advocate makes it work

In considering the many ways you can get involved in hospital and community efforts in the coming year, we hope you will put "advocating for kids" on your list.  Sound intimidating?  It's not!  In fact, it only takes a few minutes of your time and can be incorporated into the activities you are already doing.

This month we interviewed one of our most active advocates, Michelle Thatcher, to get her take on how she has made advocacy a priority in her busy life.  For the past several years, Michelle has been an active member of The Young Fund-an organization of young professionals who support hospital fundraising, advocacy, and volunteer programs-as well as a hospital volunteer/patient representative with the Association of Volunteers (AOV).  She has held various leadership positions with both organizations and is the AOV representative on Children's Advocacy Committee.  She regularly includes information about various advocacy efforts on behalf of children at community meetings and events, making it easy for others to get involved.  Here are some of the highlights from our conversation with Michelle:

What inspires you to get involved?

I think "getting the word out" is the most important thing any of us can do for any of the causes with which we are involved.  While one advocate, donor or volunteer is certainly valuable, I believe many advocates, donors and volunteers are necessary for Children's to be effective.  Anyone, regardless of career, income, time commitments, etc., can become an advocate for children. 

How do you find the time?

Children's makes it quick-and-easy to learn about issues affecting the health and welfare of children.  And, I find that when I share information with family, friends and colleagues, they take that information and apply to their own efforts - in that way, my small efforts sometimes lead to bigger results.

What are some of the issues that motivate you the most to take action?

I am particularly interested in Medicaid reimbursement and Graduate Medical Education dollars.  Children's does wonderful work and is a valuable part of our community, but it can't operate without money.  Once particular needs are identified, I think advocates, donors and volunteers need to understand those needs in order that they may affect change.

What are some of the things you plan to do in 2007 to support hospital advocacy priorities?

I will keep promoting Children's Grassroots Advocacy Network, especially at Young Fund and AOV events.  I will also continue to contact my legislators when I want to share my opinion on a particular piece of legislation.  And, perhaps most importantly, I will continue to learn about the issues and identify ways to impact them.

Learn more about our Grassroots Advocacy Network