Jan 2, 2024
In this enlightening episode, Carol interviews Lisa Hazirjian, a historian turned advocate, as they delve into Lisa’s unexpected journey from academia to the forefront of nonprofit advocacy. Through a candid recount of personal challenges and professional transitions, Lisa shares her story, motivations, and the lessons she’s learned along the way.
Some of the conversation’s highlights:
Motivation for Advocacy: Personal emotions during times of loss and the desire to effect change in public policy were Lisa’s primary motivators to engage in advocacy work.
Nonprofit Misconceptions: Lisa corrects the common misconception that nonprofits cannot engage in policy advocacy, stressing that they can and should, as they often hold valuable expertise that can inform policymaking.
Strategic Advocacy: Despite political power dynamics, Lisa argues that effective advocacy is less about which party is in power and more about the ability to influence decision-makers through strategic engagement and communication.
Building Relationships: The importance of building relationships before needing to make an ask is highlighted, with suggestions to conduct surveys and use supporters as effective messengers to lawmakers.
Volunteer Engagement: Discussion of a “ladder of engagement” approach to progressively involve volunteers in advocacy work, starting with simple actions and building up to higher responsibilities.
Training and Responsibility: Emphasizing the need to train volunteers not just for tasks but also for understanding the bigger picture, the narrative includes a personal story demonstrating this practice.
Small Wins and Community: Acknowledging small victories and the value of creating a sense of community among advocates is presented as crucial for maintaining motivation and momentum in long-term policy campaigns.
Guest Bio:
Lisa Hazirjian, PhD,
founded Win Together
Consulting to help
progressive change makers develop strategy, build power, engage
supporters, and leverage strengths to achieve their goals. She
holds a Bachelor of Arts in Public Policy Studies, Graduate
Certificate in Women’s Studies, and Ph.D. in U.S. History from Duke
University, and is working toward a Nonprofit Leadership
Certificate from the Harvard Kennedy School. You can reach Lisa
at lisa@wintogetherconsulting.com.
Important Links and Resources:
●
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisahazirjian/
Be in touch!
✉️ Subscribe to Carol’s newsletter at Grace Social Sector Consulting
💻 Give us feedback on the show
🌟 Like what you heard? Please help share the podcast by leaving a rating & review.
😀 Connect with Carol Hamilton ➡️ LinkedIn