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Calling Your Members of Congress

Politicians and decision-makers pay attention when citizens take the trouble to call and convey their views. Let them know concisely:

  1. Who you are (Name and address so they know you are a constituent)
  2. What you are calling about
  3. And what you want from them (e.g., support for a bill, opposition to a budget cut, action on a proposal).

If there is a message machine, state who you are, what you want them to support or reject, and then spell out your name and address. Elected officials like phone conversations because they provide instant feedback. Always follow a phone call with a note. That way, if the elected official did not have a pen and paper handy, they will have a record of your call - and either way you get a second chance to make your point.

1-855-US-SERVE

  • ServeNext, in partnership with the Save Service in America campaign, has launched a new tool that makes calling Congress easier and more effective. Now you can call 1-855-US-SERVE (toll-free, 1-855-877-3783), enter your zip code, listen to a few brief talking points, and then be connected directly to your Senator.

    Calling 1-855-US-Serve the easiest, most effective way to connect with your Senators. Be sure to state your name, your address and zip code, and that you urge the Senator to reject any cuts to AmeriCorps and the Corporation for National and Community Service. That's it!

Additional Information for How to Contact Your Members of Congress

  • If you need help determining the members of your congressional delegation, visit www.congress.org. This database will provide you with contact information for your elected officials.
  • You can call your Representatives or Senators directly or be connected through the Capitol Operator (202-225-3121). Once connected, identify yourself as a constituent and ask to speak to the Legislative Assistant in change of national service or appropriations.
  • Call your legislator’s District office too. You should call their local office and make sure the staff working in the congressional district also understands how your issue impacts your local community.
  • During high volume times, you may experience some difficulty calling the Capitol. It is important that you keep trying. It is critical that our lawmakers hear from the constituents directly impacted by their decisions. If you can't reach your representative by phone, please send a fax communication to their office. Email is another option, but it may not get immediate attention from congressional staff.