A key activity to political advocacy is testimony at public hearings. Last year KTP was successful in assisting over 60 people statewide to testify at several different public hearings. This was possible through the terrific volunteers of the Breakfast Club. The mental health community had a voice at the Capitol!

In 2009 public hearings were largely held this year between January and March. Please check the Advocacy Alerts page for more opportunities to advocate this year. There will be further opportunities to testify in the 2010 legislative session.

HOW IT WORKS - KEEP THE PROMISE will advise you of the hearing dates (they are announced only five days before) and how many volunteers we need for morning sign ups. We will coordinate scheduling and bring coffee and vouchers for breakfast at the cafeteria the day of sign ups so that you can have breakfast with other volunteers. All you need to do is show up early and wait for the official clerk’s sign up that morning. You will be provided with the name of the person you are being asked to sign up. Once you have gone through the official line your job is finished.

WHY IS IT IMPORTANT- This enables people who live far from the Capitol to still participate in public hearings. Public testimony from the mental health community tells legislators that we are here to stay until they fulfill their promises.

If you are willing to volunteer for at least one morning, please complete the information below. Remember that you can make a difference by helping others in this process. Pre approved stipends are available for transportation, childcare costs, and food as long as you give us your receipts.

Please return the receipts to Keep the Promise Coalition c/o NAMI-CT, 241 Main Street, 5th Floor, Hartford, CT 06106 and call us with any questions at 860-882-0236 or toll free at 1-800-215-3021.