Update from SOPHE President Heidi Hancher-Rauch

I’ll admit, I’ve been feeling somewhat disconnected from my advocacy responsibilities as a private citizen these past few weeks. Like many of you, I’ve been feeling discouraged, frustrated, and frankly exhausted. It can feel like our voices, our work, our science, and most importantly, our communities, are not being heard by those in power. If you’ve felt this way too, please know you’re not alone.

But we can’t afford to stay disengaged for long. We have to keep showing up. To reset, I took some time away to travel with my family and unplug from the constant news cycle. That time away gave me the space to rest and recharge. I realize that not everyone has the privilege or opportunity for a full vacation, but even taking a short break—stepping back from the non-essential tasks, spending time with loved ones, or simply unplugging for a while—can make a meaningful difference. If you need that pause, take it. And please, do so without guilt. Caring for yourself is part of the work.

When I returned, I knew it was time to reengage. I turned to the “5 Calls” tool (which simplifies the process of crafting messages to lawmakers) and picked up the phone.

And now, I’m asking you to join me in taking that first step back: Do Just One Thing.

Each day, choose one small action to advance the causes you care about. It might not feel like much at the moment, but collectively, these “one things” add up. Together, they become powerful.

Here are a few ideas to consider to get you started:

• Make one phone call to a legislator.
• Send one email to a policymaker.
• Have one conversation with a friend, family member, neighbor, or coworker.
• Read one advocacy update.
• Listen to one podcast.
• Attend one community group meeting.
  

If daily feels like too much, start with every other day or a few times a week. Every action counts, and we are stronger together.

As we look toward the coming weeks, I also invite you to engage with SOPHE’s Communities of Practice. We’ll be highlighting these groups through a new virtual “community time” series, held one evening each month. It’s a chance to connect with your SOPHE colleagues, hear updates, and collaborate on shared goals. Reenergizing these spaces is one way we can continue to build our collective strength and support one another in the important work ahead.

For today, take a moment to visit the Communities of Practice page on the SOPHE website. And if that’s your “one thing” for the day, that’s more than enough.

Let’s keep moving forward. Together.