Virtual Resources: The Tools You Need to Stay Connected and Take Action Today

By The Policy Circle Team

It’s hard to believe how quickly the coronavirus (COVID-19) has changed our lives and is shaping a “new normal” of public interaction. We continue to be grateful for the first responders across the country who have cared for the sick, the leaders who continue to make hard decisions to protect all Americans, and the businesses owners and everyday citizens who are making sacrifices and taking precautions to help keep people healthy, in lockdown and as states begin to open up again. 

The Policy Circle has hosted a series of virtual discussions, offering valuable discussion and connection on navigating the ongoing pandemic. During these virtual experiences, we’ve discussed how this crisis is shaping public policy, and how we, as citizens, can lead during turbulent times, leading us to ask: What is the role of business during these times as at the cornerstone of a healthy civic society? How does an unprecedented economic downturn hurt our communities and what can people do to express their concern? What can we do as individuals to support our healthcare providers, local businesses and elected officials? And in a time of crisis, what is the role of the local government vs. the federal government in tackling the situation? What information do leaders use to inform their decisions? And what are the best practices for us, as citizens,  to make our voices heard? 

Below are resources, best practices and ways for you to take action today. Please note, we will be updating with new resources as they become available. 

Virtual Resources 

• The Policy Circle Virtual Discussions: Find all virtual discussion videos to watch or rewatch, then host your own virtual discussion

• Zoom: How to host a virtual meeting 
• Virtual Meeting Tip Sheets
• Questions about hosting your first virtual Circle meeting? Contact Beth McQueen, Membership Engagement Manager, who can guide you through the process: bmcqueen@thepolicycircle.org. 
• SheSaid/SheSaid Podcast: The Policy Circle Board Member Laura Cox Kaplan offers conversations from leading women in healthcare, business and communications

Tools to Speak Up

• How to Write a Letter to the Editor, COVID-19 Edition 
• The Policy Circle’s Template to Contact Lawmakers 

The CARES ACT 

• Full recap  and summary
• U.S. Chamber Small Business Guide on the CARES Act 
• U.S. Small Business Administration Guide
• NFIB Financial and Legal resources 

Additional Resources and Information for Small Businesses and Citizens 

• Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation: Look at resource data related to COVID-19 in your state
• Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Toolkit 
• Association for Women’s Business Centers
• Women’s Business Enterprise National CouncilU.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s list of private-sector relief and containment efforts
• State Solutions to Increase Healthcare Access
• Learn more about “Certificate of Need” laws and its impact on hospital bed availability from the Goldwater Institute 
• Mercatus Center’s COVID-19 Policy Briefs
• Mercatus Center’s Prize Fund to Combat COVID-19
  • Best investigative journalism on coronavirus – $50,000 prize
  • Best blog or social media tracking/analysis of the virus – $100,000 prize
  • Best coronavirus policy writing – $50,000 prize
  • Best effort to find a good treatment rapidly – $500,000 first prize, $200,000 second prize
  • Best innovation in social distancing – $100,000 prize
  • Most important innovation or improvement for India – $100,000 prize
• U.S. Department of Labor resources for workers and employers 

Tools for Families 

• Constituting America: Educating and informing America’s adults and students about the importance of the U.S. Constitution and the foundation it sets forth regarding our freedoms and rights 
• The Policy Circle Brief Library: What better opportunity to dive deeper into the brief library with your children to discuss the Constitution, civic leadership, election integrity and more 
• National School Choice Week free online resources for teachers, educators and students
• Discovery Education: Virtual Learning page to find ready-to-use strategies and engaging resources for educators and parents 

The Policy Circle wants to hear from you – share with us how you are staying connected, supporting local businesses and leading in your community. Email communications@thepolicycircle.org.

Connection is at the heart of The Policy Circle’s model and mission. More than 3,500 women across the country gather regularly to learn about public policy and take action in their communities. Circles provide a safe, encouraging environment that fosters friendship and purpose. We celebrate our shared love of country, community and our growing tribe of women who are changing the conversation.

Want to share your Policy Circle story? Email us at communications@thepolicycircle.org to learn how to get involved.