It is the duty of the congressional staff to answer your phone calls and respond to your letters. Making phone calls is a fast, easy and effective way to make an impact on a Bill. While it is dangerous to call while driving, it has been suggested by some successful activists to make the phone call using hands free systems while driving to and from work to increase the frequeny and appropriate use of time. Feed the numbers of your members and make at least one phone call on your way to and on your way back from work. (Please be careful while driving as your first and foremost reponsibility is safe driving)

• Prepare what to say: It's OK to read from your notes (when not driving). Briefly backing up your basic message with your heart-felt passion and experience can be most effective. (message not more than 1 minute: you must remain focused)

• If you do not know the number, you can call The Congressional Switchboard at (202) 224 3121, they will connect you with either the House or Senate Offices in. But the numbers can be obtained through this link.

• When you call, a receptionist will likely answer.

a) Introduce yourself

b) Inform them about the organization you represent and support (PAKPAC)

c) Ask for the aide that deals with the issue you are discussing.
(Usually you will be asking for the Aide that deals with Domestic Policy and/or Foreign Policy or Health Issues). If the receptionist is unsure, explain your cause (in one sentence e.g. Importance of improving Pakistan, United States relationship) and the receptionist will probably be able to direct you.

d) If the aide is not available, leave your message with the receptionist or leave a voice mail message. Rarely will you speak directly to the elected official - but it can happen.

• Always leave your name, telephone number, (mailing address/fax/email) and the best times you can be reached. Request that the office return your call regarding the action they plan to take.

• Follow up on your phone call if you do not get a timely response. Please be persistent. Persistence holds the greatest power. Please be gentle, polite, but persuasive.

When you reach the aide:

a) Identify yourself,

b) Mention PAKPAC as the organization

c) Mention purpose of your call.

d) Briefly state your position with a friendly but respectful and concerned tone.

e) Mention that you and your friends feel passionately about the issue and will be monitoring the member’s response.

f) You may also ask to identify the member’s official position on the issue.

g) Do not forget to leave your full name, address, telephone number with the aide.

h) If possible also suggest that you and your friends are willing to have a meeting with the aide and/or the member of congress. (For meeting see meeting with the member of congress section)