How-tos

The document outlines a process for hosting letter-writing parties to influence decisionmakers, emphasizing the impact of multiple handwritten letters. It details six steps: determining the target and 'ask', selecting a location, inviting participants, preparing supplies, conducting the writing session, and following up with participants to maintain engagement.

• Handwritten letters are highlighted as an effective way to stand out to decisionmakers who receive significant online communication, and multiple letters on one topic signal community importance.
• Organizers can approach the 'ask' in two ways: using a predefined recommendation for an already engaged group, or facilitating a discussion for newcomers to decide on the target and request together.
• Effective letter-writing parties require specific logistical preparations, including selecting accessible venues, providing refreshments as incentives, and supplying materials such as paper, envelopes, stamps, and target addresses.
• To maximize impact, participants should use personal stories and their own words rather than strict scripts, and letters should be mailed together by one person to ensure simultaneous arrival.
• Post-event engagement through social media, email, or professional networks is recommended to keep participants informed about responses from decisionmakers and related news.

APA

Union of Concerned Scientists (2018). How-tos. https://www.ucs.org/sites/default/files/attach/2018/05/ucs-SNTK-letter-5-18.pdf

Chicago

Union of Concerned Scientists. How-tos. 2018. https://www.ucs.org/sites/default/files/attach/2018/05/ucs-SNTK-letter-5-18.pdf.

Wikipedia

{{cite report |author=Union of Concerned Scientists |title=How-tos |date=May 2018 |url=https://www.ucs.org/sites/default/files/attach/2018/05/ucs-SNTK-letter-5-18.pdf |access-date=23 October 2026 |via=Climate Insights Directory}}

BibTeX

@techreport{unionofconcernedscientists2018howtos, author = {{Union of Concerned Scientists}}, title = {{How-tos}}, institution = {Union of Concerned Scientists}, year = {2018}, month = may, url = {https://www.ucs.org/sites/default/files/attach/2018/05/ucs-SNTK-letter-5-18.pdf}, urldate = {2026-10-23}, note = {Indexed by Climate Insights Directory} }