1. Awareness of the problem The problems of inadequate funding for youth-serving programs are apparent. All of us have seen and read stories about young people making poor choices. The media loves to tell these types of stories and legislators watch the media.
2. The need to bend the cost curve Regardless of party affiliation, all legislators understand there are not unlimited dollars in government budgets. Youth Intervention helps control spending as it provides a proven return on investment with real social and economic value.
3. The need to bend the demand curve Having more individuals contributing to the common good instead of being consumers of public services is desired by every elected official. Youth workers enable our young people to develop into healthy, contributing adults which reduces demand for adult social services.
4. Desire to please constituents Youth-serving programs address all the major concerns expressed by constituent groups today. These concerns are improved public safety, the need for efficient spending, and a strong sense of community.
5. Bipartisan support The well-being of young people is not a partisan issue. Democrats, Republicans, and Independents may have different reasons for supporting you and your work, but at the end of the day they support our young people.
6. It is good politics Every legislator wants to tout that they voted for legislation that reduces spending, improves public safety, and fosters a strong community. Your youth worker social activism provides them those talking points.

But elected officials need to feel the wind at their back before supporting initiatives for change, like adequately funding youth work. They need to know that change is what their constituents want.