· Why is NPCA Advocacy important?
I want to ensure that the Peace Corps will continue to promote peaceful relations along with greater understanding, acceptance and respect between the United States and the rest of the world. The valuable work that Peace Corps Volunteers do on the ground is important for so many reasons, but it is essential to let our legislators know just how important that work is for returned, current and prospective volunteers so that we can keep the program alive and well.
· Share an advocacy success story
When I graduated from college in 2001, I moved to the DC area to take on an internship where I got to lobby for environmental issues. That is when I learned the power of advocacy and how just one meeting with a congressional staff member can make all the difference in a vote that can change the course of history. People really do have the power to make changes – even on a federal level! I also learned how to navigate the house and senate chambers pretty quickly since the interns were charged with passing out fact sheets to each member of Congress on the night before or morning of a vote that was important to us!
· Share a fun fact
I have lived in 9 states (Iowa, Minnesota, Florida, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Washington, Virginia, & California) and have set foot in 45 of the 50 states. I still need to visit Arkansas, Mississippi, Tennessee, West Virginia and Alaska!!