The timing of this year's Legislative Forum took place during a critical funding cycle, as the Surface Transportation Act was scheduled to expire at the end of March 2012 and Congress was considering legislation which would reduce overall federal transportation spending and eliminate dedicated funding for active transportation options – including Transportation Enhancements and Recreational Trails Program. Legislative Forum provided an opportunity to impress upon Members of Congress the importance of trail funding. Washington won’t change without you. Get involved!
In Their Own Words...
2012 Keynote Speaker
The 2012 Legislative Forum Keynote Speaker was Capt. Heidi Blanck, PhD, Chief of Obesity Prevention and Control at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Captain Heidi Blanck oversees CDC’s monitoring of state obesity prevalence and key behavioral and systems supports for obesity prevention and control. She leads initatives that support changes in healthy eating and physicial activity in many settings including parks and recreation spaces. Click here for a full bio on the 2012 Keynote Speaker.
2012 Event Highlights
- National Policy Dinner
The National Policy Dinner provided attendees an opportunity to come together for an enjoyable evening meal highlighted by a keynote speaker of national stature.
- Education and Training
Whether you are a seasonsed veteran or a first-time attendee, Legislative Forum provided valuable educational sessions for you. Educational sessions covered preparing for Hill visits, an overview of today's political climate, how to successfully leverage federal funds, build congressional support, create new partnerships, and how to continue your advocacy efforts back home.
- Hill Briefing
Congressional staff were invited to attend a briefing on the relevance and importance of parks and recreation to local communities and our nation.
- Hill Visits
Legislative forum attendees had the opportunity to meet one-on-one with legislators and Congressional staff to advance NRPA's legislative agenda. Attendees shared local and state views on critical issues impacting parks and recreation.
- Congressional Reception
Legislative forum attendees shared experiences with legislators, Congressional staff, and other members with like-minded interests who are also advocating on behalf of parks and recreation.
|
|