That Said

Coalition meetings with policymakers are powerful opportunities—but only if they’re well-prepared. A successful meeting requires more than showing up with shared goals; it demands coordination, clarity, and a thoughtful approach to who delivers which message. When each coalition partner knows their role and contributes strategically, the group can present a united, persuasive front that leaves a lasting impression on decision-makers. 

Maximizing Policy Meetings Through Strategic Coalition Preparation 

Coalition meetings with policymakers are high-stakes opportunities to drive your message forward. When done right, they show unity, strength, and shared purpose. But these meetings don’t just happen—they require thoughtful planning, coordination, and a smart use of resources. Here’s how to make the most of your coalition’s next policy meeting. 

Assign Roles and Play to Strengths 

Before the meeting, identify which coalition members are best positioned to speak on specific policy points. For example, if one organization has deep expertise in how a policy impacts a particular population, let them lead that part of the conversation. If a coalition partner can bring a constituent voice to the table—someone directly affected by the issue—consider starting the meeting with their story to set a compelling tone. Map out the speaking order, assign key messages to each speaker, and make sure everyone keeps their remarks focused and impactful. 

Make the Case for Why You Matter 

Every policymaker meeting should begin by establishing credibility. Why should this office pay attention to your group? Use your coalition’s collective reach to your advantage—highlight your members’ expertise, geographic footprint, and community presence. Whether it’s a strong presence in the policymaker’s district or a specialized industry perspective, demonstrate clearly why your coalition’s voice matters. 

Leverage Coalition Resources for Greater Impact 

One of the greatest benefits of working in a coalition is having access to a range of tools and resources. Tap into these assets to strengthen your message. A policy organization within your coalition might provide compelling data, while a corporate partner might offer powerful visuals or localized insights. Sharing these materials during or after the meeting can reinforce your points and leave a lasting impression. 

Use Principals for High-Level Engagement 

When engaging at a higher level—such as with senior congressional staff or members themselves—consider bringing in principals from your coalition organizations. Having CEOs, executive directors, or other high-profile leaders speak to shared goals can signal just how serious and unified your coalition is about the issue. Their participation underscores commitment and can help build momentum toward your desired policy outcome. 

Keep in Mind 

Coalition meetings are most effective when they’re carefully orchestrated. By assigning clear roles, using your members’ unique strengths, and delivering a polished, unified message, you’ll be better positioned to influence policy and build long-term relationships with decision-makers. With the right preparation, your coalition can become a force that policymakers not only hear—but remember. 

Chamber Hill Strategies 

When it comes to coalition building, Chamber Hill Strategies stands out among lobbying firms in DC. Our comprehensive approach helps clients achieve their advocacy goals. With strong relationships on Capitol Hill and a track record of shaping health policy, we turn complex challenges into real-world wins. 

Let our expertise in Washington, DC, guide your efforts towards successful and meaningful stakeholder engagement. Look for our next blog about successfully identifying the right partners. 

Many Americans love sports, and members of Congress are no different.  A few times a year, lawmakers from both parties gather to play games in a variety of sports with the goal of raising money for charities.  Here are some of the games where Representatives and Senators have the chance to take a break from the usual grind of Washington and bring out their inner athlete. 

Congressional Baseball Game 

Founded in 1909 by a Pennsylvania representative who once played baseball professionally, the Congressional Baseball Game is the oldest of the lawmaker-centric sporting events.  In the game, which has been played at Nationals Park since 2008, Democrats and Republicans form different teams and play against one another.  Congressional staffers, lawmakers’ families, and even some presidents attend the game, which raises money for four charities: the Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Washington, the Washington Nationals Dream Foundation, the Washington Literacy Center, and the US Capitol Police Memorial Fund. 

Congressional Football Game 

Started in 2004, the Congressional Football Game features members of Congress and former National Football League players facing off against the US Capitol Police.  An Arizona representative led the effort to start the annual tradition as a way to honor the memory of two Capitol police officers who died in a shooting in 1998.  The Congressional Football game raises money for three charities: the US Capitol Police Fund, Our Military Kids, and Advantage 4 Kids. 

Congressional Women’s Softball Game 

Sen. Susan Collins (R-ME), Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL) and several other female members of Congress started the Congressional Women’s Softball Game in 2009.  Each year, a team consisting of female lawmakers plays against women of the Washington, DC press corps.  The game primarily raises money for the Young Survival Coalition, which supports women under 40 who are diagnosed with breast cancer. 

Congressional Soccer Match 

Founded in 2013, the Congressional Soccer Match consists of separate teams formed by Democratic and Republican lawmakers that play against one another with help from some former professional soccer players.  Nearly all lawmakers who participate in the annual event are members of the Congressional Soccer Caucus.  The US Soccer Foundation hosts the annual match, which raises funds for several charity programs that help children in underserved communities. 

Congressional Hockey Challenge 

The Congressional Hockey Challenge began in 2009 from a weekly pickup match consisting of congressional staff and lobbyists.  Each year, members of Congress, congressional staff, and administration officials face off against lobbyists, and proceeds from the annual match go towards the Fort Dupont Cannons, USA Warriors Hockey, Capital Beltway Warriors, the Tampa Warriors, and the Professional Women’s Hockey Players Association. 

Congressional Basketball Game  

First held in 1987, the Congressional Basketball Game ran for 20 consecutive years, featuring Democratic and Republican members competing for charity. In 1999, the format shifted to a matchup between members of Congress and lobbyists. In 2024, the event expanded with the launch of the Women’s Congressional Basketball Game.