Melissa is a public policy and advocacy communications consultant, and the founder of MountainGem Advocacy & Communications. With a diverse background as a case manager, organizer, researcher, educator, legislative aide, lobbyist, and communications expert, Melissa brings a robust set of skills, wisdom, and experience to her consulting practice. She is thoughtful and effective in advancing equity and systemic change through strong interpersonal skills, policy advocacy, political strategy, strategic communications, media relations, coalition building, and project management. MountainGem's consulting services include social justice policy advocacy and strategic communications services for nonprofits, coalitions, higher education centers, and other institutions seeking to amplify their voice for change and achieve their social justice goals by influencing public policy alongside those they serve.What does this look like? Melissa works with clients to develop policy and advocacy communications strategies that align with their social justice goals and include some or all of the following tactics:--Policy deliverables (letters, emails, statements, comments, legislative visits, executive advocacy, campaigns, coalitions, advocacy training, congressional liaising, grassroots advocacy, etc.)--Traditional communications (newsletters, reports, social media, ghostwriting, toolkits/resources for constituencies, copyediting, article writing, etc.)--Media relations (press statements, media advisories, press calls, messaging, op-ed/LTE support, story pitching, media list management, editorial calendars, etc.)MountainGem has found that many organizations—because of the clients, students, or constituents they serve—are interested in engaging in advocacy and uplifting their voice for social justice, but aren’t sure where to begin. MountainGem is eager to help you leverage policy advocacy and communications in support of your organization’s mission and in pursuit of social justice.Reach out today! melissa@mountgem.com