Volume 2 | January 2007 Issue   Welcome to Impressions, the official newsletter of Carolyn Grisko & Associates Inc. Published every other month, Impressions will provide timely public relations, issues management and marketing tips. In this issue, we provide tips for building an effective coalition. Be sure to check out our coalition samples that illustrate how CG&A can help you advance your cause. Wishing you success and prosperity in 2007!     Growing Your Grass Roots: Tips for Coalition Building Definition of Coalition: A union of people and organizations working for a common cause. It’s certainly true that one can be the loneliest number. Whether passing a piece of legislation or increasing awareness of a particular issue, a coalition of organizations and individual supporters can send a very powerful message. When reaching out to potential coalition members, here are some things to keep in mind: Identify natural allies for your coalition and don't be afraid to reach out to non-traditional groups. For example, if you’re attempting to pass a consumer protection bill, think about people and communities who would most benefit by the bill and start there. In many cases, your conversations with organizations will lead you to other groups you may not have thought to approach. Regularly communicate with coalition members but don’t bog them down with too much information. It’s important to remember that organizations will be working on their own agendas as well. Be strategic about your “asks” of coalition members. Determine the one or two most important things each member of your coalition can do to advance your cause. Maybe it’s talking to a particular legislator or speaking at a press conference. You’ll likely see more impact when you make one or two big requests of people, than multiple, smaller ones. Carolyn Grisko & Associates Inc. has a solid record when it comes to building coalitions. We have organized a diverse range of local and statewide coalitions on behalf of our clients. Click on the samples below to see how CG&A can help you advance your cause.  O’Hare Modernization Program CG&A mobilized a coalition of suburban businesses and homeowners, elected officials and major business and trade organizations to help drive the passage of O’Hare Modernization Program legislation.  Used Car Buys Right-to-Know Campaign CG&A organized a broad-based coalition of community groups, labor organizations and business groups to help build legislative support for the Used Car Buyers’ Right-to-Know Bill (Illinois Senate Bill 1839).  Equal Justice Illinois Campaign CG&A assembled a group of more than 30 Illinois leaders, led by former Governor Jim Thompson and Attorney General Lisa Madigan, to successfully advocate for increased legal aid funding. Do you have an issue that you need help with? CG&A has decades of combined experience in public relations, issues management and marketing. Request a brochure or contact us today: Carolyn Grisko & Associates 400 West Erie, Suite 400 Chicago, IL 60610 312.335.0100 (phone) 312.335.0103 (fax)www.grisko.com