Mary Giliberti, J.D. (for federal policy questions)
Chief public policy officer
mgiliberti@mhanational.org
Debbie Plotnick (for national advocacy, RPC, or any state questions)
Executive vice president of state and federal advocacy
dplotnick@mhanational.org
Caren Howard (for legislative outreach and technical assistance)
Senior director of policy and advocacy
choward@mhanational.org
MHA’s Regional Policy Council (RPC) is a group of policy experts from the affiliate field who exhibit strategic leadership in state and federal advocacy and commit to mentoring other affiliates that wish to grow their policy impact. RPC Representatives hold regularly scheduled calls with affiliates to discuss issues and best practices to advance the B4Stage4 Philosophy and host meetings and webinars throughout the year that are open to all affiliate staff. MHA provides a yearly stipend to affiliates that choose to participate in at least one RPC meeting in person to offset the travel costs of attending. MHA established the RPC in 2009 to work with MHA’s Public Policy and Advocacy Department to cultivate a constructive partnership with the affiliate field, state policy leaders, and other mental health stakeholders working together to initiate, advocate for, and implement federal and state policies that positively affect children, youth, and adults living with mental health and substance use conditions.
MHA’s position statements – MHA’s public policy committee drafts these deeply-researched, rich position statements with input from affiliates on a broad range of topics.
MHA’s action alerts – To promote collective advocacy, MHA creates campaigns for affiliates and the public to flag various issues for Congress and the Administration.
Congressional Management Foundation – A trusted organization that helps advocates connect effectively with members of Congress.
Alliance for Justice: Bolder Advocacy – A helpful multi-faceted organization that among other things trains organizations on how to conduct effective advocacy.