Follow Up

Following up after a successful meeting with your member of Congress and his/her staff is crucial. Here are a few tips that will ensure you maintain strong relationships with your Senators and Representatives that extend beyond your District Days Meeting.

• Thank You Letter - Within a week of your meeting, send a thank you letter to your Member of Congress and his/her staff member in charge of tax issues. We encourage you to fax or e-mail the thank you letter (regular mail can take up to a month for delivery). [Sample Letter]
• Fill Out a Meeting Report Form - The Council on Foundations and Forum of Regional Associations of Grantmakers track the relationships between foundations and members of Congress. After your District Days meeting, please fill out a Meeting Report Form. Feel free to contact the Council's Government Relations staff (govt@cof.org or 202/466-6512) if you have any questions.
• Add Members of Congress to your Mailing List - Make sure that your Members of Congress and their relevant staff receive copies of your annual report, newsletters, etc.
• Send press releases directly to your Members of Congress - You need to keep your Members of Congress and their staff informed about the work you are doing in their communities. Make sure that your Senators, Representatives and relevant staff receive your foundation's press releases.
• Plan to Attend Foundations on the Hill 2007 - Mark your calendar! Foundations on the Hill 2007 will take place February 27-28, 2007 in Washington, DC.

Thank You for Participating in Foundations on the Hill - District Days!