A Note to Congressional Staff

Written By Danielle Stewart

BY DANIELLE STEWART

As we head into the second month of the government shutdown, we know these last weeks have been challenging for you and your team. Managing uncertainty about your own paycheck and the day-to-day needs of your office, while fielding calls from constituents who have questions, lots of feedback, and who may also be facing their own challenges, takes a toll.

As former Congressional staffers ourselves, we want you to know that your work matters. 

We see you showing up for your team, your constituents, and your boss, even in an environment of uncertainty. When the answers aren't clear and the systems you rely on aren't fully functioning, we want to show up for you.

That’s why POPVOX Foundation, with a dozen partner organizations, relaunched the CapitolStrong website. The updated site includes a resource guide with practical information and tools — both for your own use during the shutdown and for helping constituents who are reaching out to your office.

For district and state staff, we're hosting two informal Zoom sessions where caseworkers and field/outreach staff can come together to share what's working, trade resources, and support each other: These aren't webinars or presentations — just lightly structured space for peer support and practical conversation with colleagues who get what you're dealing with right now.

For DC staff, in the coming weeks, we will plan to host an in-person event with coffee, snacks, and an opportunity to meet our team and share feedback about how we can better support you as you work to support the American people. 

We would also appreciate hearing directly from you about what resources would be most helpful during this time. Please click here to share your thoughts (anonymously, if you choose!).

We're thinking of you during this difficult time. Please don't hesitate to reach out if there's anything else we can do to support you.

Danielle Stewart
Advisor for Congressional Initiatives
POPVOX Foundation

Danielle Stewart
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Boosting Connections and Community During the Shutdown - From Capitol CNCT