Advocacy 101 Training

Learn how to shape policy, navigate budgets, and make your voice heard in California’s political system

What is Advocacy 101?

This immersive, one-day training equips participants with the tools to engage confidently in California’s policy and budget process. Whether you’re advocating for your clients, your community, or your organization, Advocacy 101 helps you turn lived, clinical, or professional experience into policy impact.

How a bill becomes a law

Receive in-depth education on the lifecycle of a bill, plus strategies for effective engagement.

Navigating the state budget

Learn the intricacies of the State Budget timeline, funding sources and types, and how to work with budget committees effectively.

Using media to amplify your message

Insights on the shifting media landscape and best practices for engaging with the press.

Leveraging your expertise for systems change

Develop targeted strategies to help you achieve your advocacy objectives.

Anyone looking to influence health and human services policy in California

"The Advocacy 101 Training the Steinberg Institute provided for Easterseals Southern California government relations delegates exceeded expectations. This diverse group appreciated that the customized training met them where they were with their advocacy experience."

"Our students and Citywide colleagues had a wonderful experience and deeply appreciated the opportunity to learn directly from the Steinberg Institute staff. We’re grateful for the time and expertise they shared — attendees left feeling inspired and well-equipped to engage in policy advocacy."

“The Steinberg Institute’s Advocacy 101 Training was a highlight of my public psychiatry curriculum. It offered a practical and engaging grounding in how policy is shaped and moves through local government. Having the chance to practice advocating directly to a government decision-maker and receive real-time feedback was a unique and empowering experience. I left feeling more confident and better equipped to speak up about the clinical practice issues that matter to me and the patients I care for.”

The Steinberg Institute has been the driving force behind landmark California behavioral health policy for over a decade.

$5B+

in secured public funding for mental health and substance use

7,700+

supportive housing units delivered through No Place Like Home

SB 803

California’s Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist Certification

SB 855

California’s landmark Mental Health Parity Law

AB 988

First-in-the-nation framework to sustainably fund 988 Crisis Line

AB 348

Established presumptive eligibility for Full Service Partnerships

Ready to enhance your impact?

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