Skip to main content
voices va children speakers session

Speakers

Cat Atkinson & Rachael Deane

Strategic Advocacy: Power Mapping for Policy Impact

CFY Speaker Detail Icon Date
Monday, May 4
Clock Icon
9:50 pm – 10:50 pm ET
Location Pin Icon
Ballroom G/F
Orange Squiggle Divider

Ready to take your advocacy to the next level?

In this interactive, hands-on session, you’ll learn how to drive meaningful policy change using practical strategies for navigating the legislative and budget process. Through a guided, live power mapping exercise, you’ll begin building a strategic map you can apply to your own advocacy efforts.

You’ll gain tools to engage effectively throughout the year — from preparing for committee meetings and meeting with lawmakers to mobilizing communities beyond session.

You’ll leave with a clearer understanding of how decisions are made, where influence lives, and how to strategically position your issue for maximum impact.


Learning Outcomes

By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

  • Describe key stages of the state legislative and budget process and identify opportunities for engagement during committee hearings and other decision points.
  • Apply strategies for engaging elected officials and policymakers before, during, and after legislative sessions to advance health-related policy goals.
  • Identify opportunities to mobilize community members and partners in year-round grassroots advocacy efforts.

Stay Connected

Get the latest updates about the Summit and youth development resources.


May 4-6, 2026

Hyatt Regency at Reston Town Center
1800 Presidents Street
Reston, VA 20190

Get My Ticket

Hosted By:

© 2026 Champions for Youth Summit  |  All Rights Reserved |  Privacy Policy

Home
Agenda
Speakers
Hotel & Travel