Direct communication with elected officials, whether they are active at the municipal, township, county, state or federal level, is one of the most important and effective means of advocacy in a democratic society.  Unless you reach out to the people who represent you, they are not likely to know of -- or understand -- your concerns.

The best way to approach communication with an elected official is to:

- Have a clear purpose:  Do you seek a specific change?  Do you need them to support a bill?  You can only be effective if you KNOW what you want.
- Be direct and clear.  Don't talk around your point, ramble or provide unnecessary information.
- Do your homework, and have research that supports your point of view.
- Prepare your message, and keep it brief.  If meeting with an official directly, you might prepare materials to leave behind for the official and his or her staff.
- Find out the best way to reach them.  
- Be respectful of them and their staff.

For a complete list of elected officials specific to Montgomery County, please visit the Montgomery County website at http://www.mcohio.org/ and click on the "Government" tab.