In an era when the political landscape can leave even the most engaged citizens feeling powerless, there is one tool that is frequently overlooked — not because it doesn’t work, but because people dismiss it before ever developing the skill to use it well. Providing public comment on regulations is one of the most underused, yet accessible and powerful, tools in civic engagement.

In this interactive session, we’ll explore how storytelling drives policy change, dig into the recent Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Regulation for Federal Financial Assistance, and help you find your angle for a personalized, effective comment letter. This webinar includes facilitated group discussion and optional guided writing time.

Speakers: 

• Sadena Thevarajah, Managing Director, HealthBegins (host)
• Allie Cashel, Campaign Strategies, Protect Democracy
• Sarah Saadian, Senior Vice President, Public Policy & Campaigns, National Council of Nonprofits
• Grace Rubenstein, Director of Storytelling & Strategic Communications, HealthBegins

Webinar goals:

By the end of the webinar, attendees will be able to:

• Explain how public comment fits within a broader arsenal of democratic skills and why the OMB rule represents a meaningful opportunity for civic action.

• Identify a personal angle or story that connects your experience to the OMB rule and strengthens the impact of a comment letter.

• Draft or outline a personalized comment letter using storytelling strategies that speak directly to policymakers.