Sample Letters and Phone Script
The attached phone script and letters are intended to be guides when you are drafting your own correspondence. Do not copy these letters and just add your signature. You will more effective speaking passionately in your own words.

Sample Phone Script for Talking to a Legislator
Introduction
Hello Senator (name), this is (name), a citizen from your district and a Commissioner for the Idaho Commission on the Arts. I am calling today to ask for your support in protecting state funding for the arts (if applicable, thank them for past support).

Question
Are you familiar with the work of the Idaho Commission on the Arts? (if not, provide a quick overview)
OR (if you know they are a current supporter of the arts) Have you heard about the (name it) arts project in our district?

State the Problem and Provide Data
As you might know, state funding for state arts agencies (details).

Acknowledgment
I realize you have complex budget decisions to make again this year and there will be competing priorities. I urge you to maintain funding for the Idaho Commission on the Arts at its current level.

Local Connection
Through this funding, the agency supports community arts programs and arts in the classroom, such as the project at (local school) that brought professional artists together with parents, teachers, and students. This grant launched a new collaboration in (city) that is going strong and is leveraging local funding.

Appeal
It is more important now than ever to secure the investment in our cultural resources so that we can maintain the impact that the arts have on our economic health and quality of life.

Ask
Can I count on your support?

Rebuttal (if objection is raised) I appreciate your position. I also believe strongly that the arts are beneficial to the constituents in our district and in Idaho. I have additional information that details some of those impacts; would you like me to send it to you?

Thanks Thank you for your time today. Your support is vital to our citizens and to the work of the Idaho Commission on the Arts.
(Be sure to follow up if you promised information during the call.)