Grassroots Advocate Summer 2024 Story: Natalie Jones, Illinois (written by Natalie)

As a RESULTS Fellow, I’m grateful to be part of a wonderful community. Together, we learn more about what’s going on across the country and the world. We’re supported to make a difference on our shared values and concerns. 

Our group of Fellows in Chicago want to make a visible, direct impact on the city we love. So, when we heard the call to build community through outreach this summer, we answered it. We believe that to advocate for our community, we must show up in person to support them on the ground. We don’t get this too much with advocacy. Marshall, another Fellow from Chicago, is passionate about environmental justice and its intersection with poverty and oppression. So, we decided to do a neighborhood cleanup. 

Our pre-event outreach was very much a win. We hung flyers and chatted with local Aldermen, school districts, and coffee shop patrons. I was anxious to talk to people at first. It was scary to bring up a potentially divisive topic and I didn’t know how people would react. I was pleasantly surprised by the response. When they learned about RESULTS and our group’s work, everyone became enthusiastic. Not one business turned us away when we asked to publicize our event. It showed me that many people in our community share values. We connect on the problems we want to solve. We may disagree on politics and the right solution. But, we all want to improve our communities.   

By being present and showing up in our community, we publicly showed our values and beliefs. People thanked us for what we were doing. After our neighborhood clean-up, it was amazing to see what a small group could achieve by working together. This is true for our advocacy too. This strengthened our team bonds and our resolve to advocate together. 

My advice to those hesitant to do outreach: If you’re nervous, don’t let that hold you back. I was nervous too. I worried that no one would show up. It’s easy to get in your head and spiral. Outreach will show that your community cares. People are positive, receptive, and grateful for our work. Even if you don’t reach your original goal, something good will come of it.