Your story belongs at the Capitol.
How Recovery Advocacy Day Works
Recovery Advocacy Day is designed to help you feel prepared, supported, and confident as you share your voice with lawmakers. While everyone’s schedule may look slightly different, the day follows a clear and supportive flow.
You will check in and connect with others from your legislative district, participate in brief orientation and opening programming, and meet with lawmakers throughout the day alongside fellow advocates. Your program guide and live meeting schedule will help you stay on track if times or locations change.
Throughout the day, you will also have opportunities to connect with the statewide recovery community, reflect, and access support from staff, volunteers, and peer leaders.
No prior advocacy experience is required, and you are never expected to navigate the day alone.
Recovery Advocacy Day exists because lawmakers need to hear directly from their constituents.
Many recovery supports that exist today, including peer services, recovery housing and the recovery navigator program were protected or expanded because advocates showed up and shared their stories.
Agenda
7:00 AM
Doors Open
Check-In with LD Captains
7:30 – 8:00 AM
Welcome & Opening Remarks
8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Meet with Legislators
*Schedules vary by district. Legislative schedules may change. Staff and volunteers will assist with updates throughout the day.
12:00 – 1:00 PM
Lunch
United Churches of Olympia
1:00 – 4:00 PM
Light refreshments provided by WSAM in the Senate Rules Room (limited space).
1:30 – 4:30 PM
Connect, reflect, and share feedback.
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New This Year: Tools to Support Your RAD Experience
This year, Recovery Advocacy Day includes new tools designed to make the experience easier to navigate, more accessible, and less stressful.
Live Lawmaker Meeting Schedule
A real-time, district-based schedule will help you track meeting times and locations as legislative availability changes.
Self-Service Check-In
Participants will check in by locating their legislative district area and picking up their program guide, badge, and meeting details. Staff and volunteers will be available to assist.
Shuttle Transportation
A shuttle will run between United Churches of Olympia and the Capitol campus throughout the day to improve accessibility and reduce travel barriers.
Program Guide as Your Companion
Your program guide includes your schedule, maps, lawmaker information, and advocacy tips to help you navigate the day with confidence.
Information Desk and On-Site Support
Look for the information desk, volunteers, and legislative district captains, which will be available throughout the day to answer questions and provide support.
Sharing Your Story with Lawmakers
Everyone has a story to tell. Personal stories are one of the most effective ways to help lawmakers understand how policies affect real people. They give meaning to legislation and help decision-makers see the humanity behind the issues they work on every day.You do not need to share your entire journey. A few thoughtful moments and clear connections to recovery services or community needs can have a powerful impact.
Tips for Sharing Your Story
Keep it short
Aim for about 2–3 minutes. Focus on one meaningful part of your experience rather than your full story.
Have a clear message
Think about why you are sharing and how your experience connects to recovery supports or community priorities.
Focus on key moments
Choose one or two moments that are memorable and help illustrate your message.
Stay grounded
Emotion can be powerful. Taking a breath and pacing yourself can help you stay on track.
Share hope
Highlight recovery, connection, and possibility. Messages like “recovery is possible” and “support services work” are meaningful to policymakers.
Know your audience
Use clear, everyday language when speaking with lawmakers. Your perspective and lived experience are valuable and important.
Be authentic
You do not need to be perfect or rehearsed. Honest, passionate stories help people listen and connect.
