It is always a good idea to put together a folder to leave with each of your Senators and Representatives. Many regional associations put together "leave-behind" folders for their delegations.

[Folder Content Example] - courtesy of the Ohio Grantmakers Forum

A typical leave-behind folder usually includes:

• a list of meeting participants with contact information
  
  
• one page overview of grantmaking in your state/district - to find the latest foundation statistics
  for your state, visit the Foundation Center website
  • [Handout Example] - courtesy of the Minnesota Council on Foundations
    
    
• legislative issue papers
  
  
• Council and Forum one-pagers - demonstrates the connection between grantmakers, regional associations and their national membership organizations.
  • [Handout Example] - courtesy of the Donors Forum of Chicago
    
    
• any press clips of the work being done the lawmaker's state/district

Please do not overstuff your leave-behind folders. Follow this rule: the more you include, the less likely it will be that the lawmaker or staffer will read through your materials.

If you would like the Council and Forum to provide your leave-behind folders, please contact Chatrane Birbal (703/879-0689) at the Council.