Advocacy Resources

At MCCOY, we aim to educate, empower, and equip individuals with the tools to advocate for policy changes that support children, families, and the youth-serving community. Explore our resource library below to learn more.

Use our voter guide to learn how to register, understand key election dates, navigate the voting process, and make informed choices at the polls.
Use our toolkit to understand how the legislative process works, connect with elected officials, prepare testimony for committee hearings, and build practical skills to create change in your community.
Our one-pager will help you quickly understand the basics of youth advocacy, why it matters, and how young people can use their voices to create change in their schools and communities.
Use our one-pager to guide you in identifying an issue you care about, setting clear goals, and outlining actionable steps to use your voice and take meaningful action in your community.
Use this notebook when attending Statehouse conference committees to guide your note-taking. It includes prompts to help you track who is in the room, what is being said, and why stakeholders may hold different perspectives on the bill under discussion.
Find your legislator to share your thoughts on pending legislation or propose new ideas. Reach out anytime by calling, writing, emailing, or tweeting your representative to make your voice heard year-round.

Advocacy starts with understanding the challenges facing our communities and identifying solutions that create meaningful change. MCCOY’s white papers bring together research, data, and community perspectives to examine critical issues affecting children, youth, and families.

Through these publications, MCCOY highlights barriers, elevates community voices, and provides actionable policy recommendations to help leaders make informed decisions that support young people.

Explore our white papers and policy briefs to learn how research becomes action and how together we can help all youth learn, grow, and thrive.

Child Care White Paper

Our white paper examines the challenges facing Indiana’s child care system, from affordability and access to workforce shortages and policy changes. Learn how these issues impact children, families, providers, and employers and explore recommendations to build a stronger early learning system.

Youth Gun Violence White Paper

Our white paper examines the factors contributing to youth gun violence in Marion County and the lasting effects on young people, families, and communities. Explore data-driven strategies and policy recommendations focused on prevention, intervention, and creating safer communities where youth can thrive.

Youth Homelessness White Paper

Our white paper explores the causes and impact of youth homelessness in Marion County, highlighting the barriers young people face in accessing safe housing, education, and supportive services. Discover policy recommendations that can help prevent youth homelessness and improve outcomes for young people.