West Plains, MO, August 9, 2024 – The National Association of Workforce Boards (NAWB) and the National Association of Workforce Development Professionals (NAWDP) recently released a comprehensive guide designed to assist workforce development organizations in hosting effective Congressional site visits. This collaborative effort underscores the critical importance of engaging lawmakers directly with the impactful work being done at local workforce development sites.
“Members of Congress are making important decisions about federal workforce development policies, and we need to make sure they understand how the proposed legislation will affect our ability to serve our communities. Site visits offer a perfect opportunity for these important conversations. We are thrilled to join together with NAWDP to offer this important resource to the workforce ecosystem during this critical time,” said Brad Turner-Little, President and CEO, NAWB
The August Congressional recess presents an ideal window for hosting site visits, allowing lawmakers to engage with their constituents in their home districts. This timing is especially opportune as it leads into September’s Workforce Development Month, which was created by NAWDP in 2005 to offer a platform to highlight the critical role of workforce development programs across the nation.
The Congressional Site Visit Guide is an invaluable resource for workforce development boards and professionals, offering a clear and actionable roadmap for planning and executing successful visits. The guide includes sections on the significance of hosting a visit, detailed planning steps, and a step-by-step approach to ensure that these visits highlight the transformative role of workforce development programs. Additional tips are also provided to enhance the experience for both hosts and Congressional guests.
Why Host a Congressional Site Visit?
Site visits offer a unique opportunity for workforce development organizations to showcase their programs and services directly to the lawmakers who influence federal workforce policies. By hosting these visits, organizations can demonstrate the real-world impact of their work, foster stronger relationships with policymakers, and advocate for continued support and funding.
How to Plan a Visit
The guide outlines essential planning steps, including identifying the right time to invite Congressional members, preparing site staff and participants, and coordinating logistics to ensure a seamless experience. It also emphasizes the importance of tailoring the visit to reflect the specific needs and successes of each workforce development program.
Step-by-Step Guide with Additional Tips
From drafting the initial invitation to executing follow-up communications, the guide walks hosts through every stage of the process. The tips provided ensure that hosts can anticipate and address potential challenges, making the visit as impactful as possible.
Melissa Robbins, CEO of NAWDP, emphasized the importance of site visits: “Hosting a Congressional site visit is one of the most powerful tools we have to advocate for our workforce programs. By inviting our lawmakers to see firsthand the difference these programs make in people’s lives, we are not only showcasing our successes but also educating and building essential partnerships for the future.”
Workforce development boards and professionals across the country are encouraged to take advantage of this resource and begin planning their Congressional site visits today. Download the guide
About the National Association of Workforce Boards (NAWB)
NAWB serves, supports, and represents the nation’s more than 590 Workforce Development Boards, which coordinate with education and economic development stakeholders to administer regional workforce programs that meet the needs of job seekers, career-seekers, businesses and communities.For more information on NAWB’s latest work and initiatives, please visit www.nawb.org.
