New APWA U.S. grassroots advocacy network: APWA Advocates Tracy Okoroike Government Affairs Associate American Public Works Association Washington, D.C.
s policymakers in Washington continue to debate important questions about investment in public infrastructure and other public works issues, APWA has launched a new U.S. grassroots advocacy initiative to enhance APWA’s advocacy influence and outreach. In a special message to all members in the United States, APWA President Diane Linderman recently invited all interested APWA members in the U.S. to join this growing network called APWA Advocates. As part of this network, APWA members in congressional districts throughout the United States are taking an active role advocating the need for investment in public infrastructure and promoting APWA’s legislative priorities through outreach and education. President Linderman is urging members in the U.S. to step up to the exciting new opportunity to strengthen APWA’s advocacy voice. Participation has many benefits. Members are connected to a network of APWA advocates in all 50 states working together to support public works. APWA Advocates will receive information from two key resources including the monthly APWA Washington Report, and by
participating in the APWA infoNOW Government Affairs Community. The APWA Washington Report is a monthly e-newsletter with crucial updates on the status of federal legislation and regulations important to the public works community. The infoNOW Government Affairs Community is a members-only e-mail network allowing members to share information on the latest legislative and regulatory news and updates. It will also be used to alert APWA Advocates of pending issues and the need to communicate with lawmakers and regulators. In addition, APWA Advocates will be e-mailed an individualized welcome packet with essential information that will help them become the most effective advocate. This packet will include: •
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Advocacy tips and background information about the federal legislative process
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A link to a letter that can be personalized and sent to their representatives
APWA Advocates will make the public works voice stronger, louder and heard in every congressional district. Collectively, it is our responsibility to be sure that lawmakers know that investing in public infrastructure must be a national priority. Individually, you can help make that a reality by joining APWA Advocates. To join, please visit the new website at http://www.apwa.net/be_involved/ APWA-Advocates or contact Tracy Okoroike in the Washington, D.C., office at APWAAdvocates@apwa.net or (202) 218-6702.
A fact sheet on their congressional representatives
“We do not inherit the earth from our ancestors, we borrow it from our children.” – Native American Proverb
January 2012 APWA Reporter
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