Washington Business Spring 2015 | Page 36

business backgrounder | economy Hamilton echoed that sentiment, explaining that when she reached out to her membership with a compelling letter asking for specific stories on how an increased minimum wage and mandatory sick leave will directly affect their businesses, she received 15 responses.  “Because the Alliance is encouraging its members, we feel more empowered to reach out to our members,” Hamilton said. “By working with the Alliance, I hope to get a better understanding of how to entice my members to self-advocate and tell their stories.” next steps for grassroots alliance In addition to the legislative assistance, AWB plans to host government affairs advocacy and media training workshops for Alliance members this summer and fall in preparation for the 2016 session. Mattson is enthusiastic about the progress so far and what lies a