Restoring Trust in Government: Not A Communications Problem

March, 2012. The Nation. Dianne Stewart makes the case that building trust in government will not be solved by merely sharpening our communication skills. Stewart argues that if we want to broaden support for government, we need to appeal to the aspirations people have for their communities and states, rather than create a sense of an enemy to be fought.
"Making the Case" is a collection of video clips that illustrate how to advocate for our public structures and systems and the revenues that support them. It contains a series of real-life clips, ranging from inaugural speeches to campaigns that fight budget-cutting ballot propositions, each of which exemplify effective ways to build public support for the public sector.

Public Works is a non-profit organization dedicated to building public will for the common good by engaging more Americans in an active pursuit of a government that works for all.

Public Works occasionally sends out newsletters, publications, general commentary, or information regarding upcoming webinars.  
Keeping Our Message Big Enough

One of our central challenges as communicators is to keep our communications focused on our vision and values—a story big enough for people to see what is possible in their community (or state) and why. Our communications needs to set the big picture first. Using a message box can help you do that.
Montana's Tax Gnome Thanks Taxes!

The Partnership for Montana's Future is celebrating the "amazing things taxes support" with pictures of the programs and services that make Montana a great place to live. Their "Tax Gnome" is “traveling the state to highlight the good things our tax dollars give us!”
NEW: Resources for Communicating About Public Budgets
These resources can help you effectively redirect conversations about public budgets away from being merely about dollar figures and political talking points towards a more productive discussion about public priorities and the role of government in achieving them.