Participating in Informed Advocacy

Informed advocacy involves using knowledge and resources to provide support and make decisions. Volunteer organizations can utilize informed advocacy by connecting guests/participants to resources, information, groups, and services that may benefit their situation. Advocacy ensures that people are aware of their rights, that misinformation is not being spread, and addresses issues. Informed advocacy and action varies on the field, such as healthcare or education.

At the Ronald McDonald House, informed advocacy means being aware of the medical needs of the children and identifying family needs to increase comfortability during a family’s stay. The organization uses informed advocacy to raise money for the homes and programs brought into it, sharing the information and what populations benefitted from these stories to promote the organization’s goals. Additionally, informed advocacy at the Ronald McDonald house can change the items requested for donation.

Family support specialists within the house show extended advocacy by connecting families with resources and services for addition support or aid. As a volunteer, I show informed advocacy using, “see a need, fulfill the need” with house keeping and stocking tasks. As well as organizing or planning for special events. These tasks ensure that families are well provided for and can come and go as needed to support their families.