How to be an Advocacy Ambassador

Advocacy isn't reserved for legislators, policy experts, or organizational leaders. Every person involved in PACE has the opportunity to be an ambassador for the program and the older adults it serves.

Whether you're a clinician, administrator, caregiver, board member, or community partner, your voice can help raise awareness, influence decision-makers, and ensure more Hoosiers have access to the services they need to age with dignity and independence.

What Is an Advocacy Ambassador?

An advocacy ambassador is someone who actively promotes understanding of PACE and its impact on participants, families, and communities.

You don't need a title or special training to be an effective advocate. The most powerful ambassadors are often those who can share real stories, answer questions, and help others understand the value of coordinated care for older adults.

Know the PACE Story

Before you can advocate for PACE, it's important to understand the fundamentals.

Be prepared to explain:

• What PACE is and who it serves

• How the program helps older adults remain in their homes and communities

• The comprehensive services PACE provides

• The positive outcomes PACE delivers for participants and families

Having a simple, concise explanation ready can help you confidently discuss PACE with community members, referral sources, and policymakers.

Share Real-Life Impact

Facts and statistics are important, but stories create connection.

Think about the participants whose lives have been improved through PACE. Consider the family caregiver who found support, the participant who avoided institutional care, or the individual who regained independence through coordinated services.

When appropriate and with respect for privacy, sharing these stories can help others understand the human impact behind the program.

Build Relationships in Your Community

Advocacy often begins long before a legislative issue arises.

Look for opportunities to connect with:

• Community organizations

• Healthcare providers

• Senior service agencies

• Business leaders

• Elected officials

The more people understand PACE and its mission, the stronger the network of support becomes.

Stay Informed

Effective ambassadors stay informed about issues that affect older adults and long-term care services.

Read advocacy updates, attend educational sessions, participate in association events, and stay connected to industry news. Understanding current challenges and opportunities helps you become a more effective voice for the program.

Engage with Elected Officials

Legislators and policymakers want to hear from the people who are directly impacted by healthcare policy.

Simple actions can make a difference:

• Attend legislative events

• Respond to advocacy alerts

• Send emails or letters to elected officials

• Invite policymakers to visit your PACE center

• Share stories that demonstrate the program's impact

Advocacy is most effective when decision-makers can see firsthand how programs like PACE improve lives.

Use Your Voice

Advocacy doesn't always happen in a statehouse. It happens in conversations with neighbors, community partners, healthcare providers, and family members.

Every time you explain what PACE does, share a success story, or help someone better understand the needs of older adults, you are strengthening awareness and support for the program.

Small Actions Create Big Impact

You don't have to do everything to make a difference.

A conversation. A story. An invitation. A letter. A visit.

Each action helps build greater understanding of PACE and its role in helping older adults live safely, independently, and with dignity.

Together, we can ensure that the voices of PACE participants, families, and providers continue to be heard across Indiana.