Why Advocacy?

I started my career in direct service, working as an advocate in a domestic violence shelter, in juvenile justice facilities, out of school time programs and child care. In each of these roles, I saw firsthand the challenges that families face and the barriers that prevent them from achieving their goals. This experience motivated me to pursue a career in public policy, where I could use my time and passion to help make a difference in the lives of others.

For over 15 years, I worked as legislative staff and nonprofit advocate. I focused on building relationships that could be leveraged for good, developed spaces for people impacted by systems to be a part of proposing solutions to the barriers they experience, and supported individuals and nonprofit organizations in their own advocacy journeys.

I am strongly committed to upending the idea of a racial hierarchy of human value and utilizing my policy and advocacy skills to advance equity in public systems.

If you’re interested in learning more about upending historical harm locally and across Michigan, let’s chat about what we can do together.

Beth Berglin, 517 Strategies Founder.

Check out my formal resume, to find out why I know about early childhood, k-12 policy and funding, juvenile justice, dropout prevention, housing access and affordability, older adults issues, veterans and more.