2027 United Way Day at the Capitol
REGISTER NOW for United Way Day at the Texas Capitol on Wednesday, February 24, 2027!
We're excited to once again host a dedicated Texas United Way Day at the Capitol for our members. This members-only event will still take place during the Texas Nonprofit Summit so local United Way staff and partner agencies can take advantage of both opportunities while they're in Austin.
Attendees can participate in the broader nonprofit conversations taking place throughout the Summit, then join the United Way network for a day focused on strengthening our relationships, engaging directly with policymakers, and advocating collectively as a UNITED voice.
WHEN
Wednesday, February 24th, 2027, from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM CST
WHERE
Near Capitol Grounds & Texas Capitol (and proximity)
1501 Congress Ave
Austin, TX 78701
BOOK YOUR HOTEL ASAP!
Hotels are limited in the area due to multiple events. Please book your stay now to ensure you have proper accommodations. See hotel suggestions here!
1. What is United Ways of Texas Capitol Day?
Capitol Day brings together local United Ways from across Texas to connect with state legislators, share local community needs, and discuss policies that affect Texas families and the communities we serve.
2. When is Capitol Day?
Wednesday, February 24, 2027. Additional information about the day's schedule and meeting locations will be shared with registered participants.
3. Where will Capitol Day take place?
Capitol Day activities will take place in Austin, including legislative meetings at the Texas Capitol. Specific locations and any scheduled group activities will be shared as details are finalized.
4. Who should attend?
Local United Way CEOs, staff, board members, and other representatives who can speak to community needs and local impact are encouraged to participate. United Ways may bring colleagues or community partners as appropriate.
5. Do I need to be familiar with state policy or the legislative process?
No. You do not need to be a policy expert to participate. Your experience working with local families, community partners, and employers is valuable. United Ways of Texas will provide resources to help participants prepare.
6. Do I need to schedule my own legislative meetings?
Yes. Each local United Way should begin identifying and contacting its state representative and state senator to request meetings on February 24. United Ways of Texas encourages organizations serving the same legislative districts to coordinate and consider joint meetings.
See the Legislative Meeting Scheduling Guide for sample outreach language and planning tips.
7. What if my legislator is unavailable?
Ask whether you can meet with a legislative director, policy staff member, or other representative of the office. A staff meeting is still a valuable opportunity to share your community's needs and establish a relationship.
8. What should we discuss with legislators?
Participants should be prepared to share a brief overview of their United Way's work, relevant local data or examples, and the issues most affecting their communities. United Ways of Texas will share additional policy resources and suggested talking points as they become available.
9. Are we expected to advocate for specific legislation?
The goal is to build relationships, share information about community needs, and engage legislators in conversations about policy priorities. Any coordinated statewide policy messages or specific requests will be shared by United Ways of Texas.
10. What should I bring?
Bring your meeting schedule, contact information for legislative offices, a brief overview of your United Way's local impact, and any relevant materials or data. Additional preparation materials will be provided as available.
11. Is there a registration fee?
Registration details, including any applicable costs, will be shared by United Ways of Texas.
12. Will meals or refreshments be provided?
Meal and refreshment details will be shared with participants once the schedule is finalized.
13. Where should I park?
The Texas Capitol Visitors Parking Garage is located at 1201 San Jacinto Boulevard. Check current parking rates and availability before your trip. Allow extra time for parking and security screening. Official parking information.
14. What if I have accessibility needs?
Please contact United Ways of Texas in advance so accommodations can be coordinated. The Texas Capitol also provides visitor accessibility information and assistance through its official accessibility services.
15. Who should I contact with questions?
Contact United Ways of Texas for questions about registration, scheduling, preparation materials, or Capitol Day logistics. Contact information will be shared with participants.
Local United Ways are encouraged to schedule their own meetings with state legislators for Capitol Day. If you need assistance with scheduling or coordinating meetings, please reach out to Madden Baggerly or Stephanie O’Banion at United Ways of Texas.
- Identify your legislators: Use the Texas House and Texas Senate websites to find your elected officials.
- Request a meeting: Contact the legislator's Capitol office by phone or email and ask to meet with the legislator or their staff on February 24.
- Prepare your message: Be ready to share your United Way's local impact, community needs, and relevant state policy priorities.
- Coordinate with other United Ways: If you share legislators with neighboring United Ways, consider coordinating a joint meeting.
- Confirm your meetings: Follow up with the office before Capitol Day to confirm the time, location, and attendees.
[View the Legislative Meeting Scheduling & Preparation Guide](LINK TO FULL GUIDE) for sample outreach language, a meeting request email template, preparation tips, and a sample meeting agenda.
Interested in becoming a Day at the Capitol Sponsor? Check out our Sponsorship Form here!
