Study Proves Consumer Input Improves Advocacy

A recent article in Health Affairs discusses the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation’s (RWJF) Consumer Voices for Coverage program, which concludes greater advocacy impact is achieved when efforts include authentic voices of individuals served.

RWJF supported 12 state-based advocacy organizations in designing a state leadership team, as well as establishing and executing shared objectives, policy priorities, and advocacy campaigns.

The study, conducted by Mathematica Policy Research, gaugeed the involvement and influence of consumer advocates. Mathematica Policy Research interviewed 73 policymakers from 12 states.

The study found:

• 40 percent of policymakers indicated consumer advocacy groups made a big difference or changed the nature of debate on key issues
• 32 percent indicated they made a moderate difference

“The results of this study confirm what community advocates have consistently seen to be true— incorporating authentic voices is truly effective in achieving change,” says Linda Nguyen, director of civic engagement at the Alliance for Children and Families. “It also demonstrates the emphasis on evaluation within the field and human services industry.”

Alliance Offers Opportunity to Measure Civic Engagement Impact

The Alliance’s civic engagement program invites member agencies to participate in efforts to implement the newly-developed Civic Engagement Measurement System.

Organizations that implement the measurement system will gain access to automated administration, scoring, and reporting services at no cost, because of generous support from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation.

Learn more about this project by participating in a free, informational webinar Nov. 30 from 11 a.m.-noon CT. Register online to attend.

Direct questions to Linda Nguyen at 202-429-0364.