Power of Advocacy
Catalyst CT is a premier nonprofit advocacy organization that effectively shines a light on the issues faced by our region’s youth and families. Through public policy changes and youth advocacy programs, we seek to improve their physical, social, emotional, mental, and behavioral well-being. We envision a community in which everyone:
- Is safe, supported, and healthy
- Receives a high-quality education
- Grows up economically independent and financially secure
- Feels safe from youth gun and gang violence
- Has a chance for restorative justice within the juvenile justice system
Catalyst CT’s advocacy starts at a grassroots level, and from a footing that is inclusive, diverse, and motivated. We also empower community members by giving them tools and information to advocate for themselves. Together, we harness the power of people to encourage policy and systems change
Your Voice Matters
Positive change often starts close to home. Local, state, and federal agencies have a significant impact on our daily lives. We have the power to influence policies that shape our communities. Together, let’s raise our voices on issues we care about. Join us – your advocacy will help to cultivate a community that benefits you, your neighbors, and future generations.
What are the most pressing issues?
Each year, suggested policy remedies are reflected in legislative priorities. During the 2024 legislative session, we are focusing our advocacy in the following areas:
Youth and Gun
Violence Prevention
- Sustainability of funding for the Community Gun Violence Intervention and Prevention Program
- Support at-risk and disconnected youth through the Juvenile Justice Policy & Oversight Committee recommendations
Mediation
- Funding to support the expansion of the Mediation program across the state
Youth (Workforce)
Development
- Provide funding to identify at-risk youth who are disconnected from education and workforce training
Behavioral Health
and Substance
Misuse Prevention
and Treatment
- Sustainability for urgent crisis centers
- Sustainability for psychiatric beds and support staff
- Sustainability for intermediate- and higher-levels of care
- Prevention and sustainability for our Local Prevention Councils
How do you testify?
It is critical that our policy makers understand your lived experience. You can communicate with them by offering your constructive suggestions, either by writing letters or emails, or by offering verbal testimony at public hearings, legislative forums, and candidate events.
How can you follow the proceedings?
This website provides an array of information about the legislative process, including:
- Bills: Search for bills by topic, keyword, or bill number. You can also track the progress of specific bills through committee hearings and votes.
- Committees: Learn about the different legislative committees and their focus areas. Watch committee hearings live or on-demand to understand the details of proposed legislation.
- Calendars: View the daily calendar of the House and Senate to see which bills will be discussed and voted on.
- Contact Your Legislator: Find the contact information for your state Senator and Representative.
This website offers a 24-hour cable TV and internet streaming service, with live broadcasts and recordings of legislative sessions, committee hearings, and other government and public affairs information.
This website is a nonprofit, non-partisan news source that informs Connecticut residents about the impact of public policy. The site holds the government accountable and engages and amplifies diverse voices and perspectives.
Locally owned and operated, this website is a source of political news and public policy. It focuses on the state legislature, state agencies, the courts, health systems, and the political environment.