President's Message

Dear NREDA Members,

I recently had the privilege of attending the National Association of Development Organizations (NADO) Washington, D.C. Policy Conference alongside the Southeast Nebraska Economic Development District. This annual event serves as a vital platform for rural economic development leaders to connect with federal policymakers, gain insight into legislative priorities, and champion the needs of our rural communities. It was a timely and valuable experience—especially ahead of NREDA’s own upcoming D.C. fly-in.

Throughout the visit, our conversations with members of Congress and federal agency representatives reaffirmed the critical importance of elevating rural America’s voice in national policy discussions. Whether advocating for broadband expansion, affordable rural housing, or workforce training programs, it is essential that we clearly articulate the needs and aspirations of the communities we serve.

As we prepare for future advocacy opportunities, here are a few proven strategies for ensuring your message resonates:

• Do Your Homework
  Understand your legislator’s priorities, committee assignments, and past support for rural issues. Tailoring your message to their interests increases your chance of success.

• Be Clear and Concise
  Focus on two or three key points. Be direct about how the issue affects your community—and always bring a one-pager or leave-behind.

• Tell Your Story
  Data matters, but stories stick. Share real-life examples that illustrate both the challenges and potential in your region.

• Build Relationships
  Advocacy is more than a meeting—it's an ongoing dialogue. Keep legislators and their staff informed and engaged over time.

• Follow Up
  Send a thank-you note summarizing your discussion, and offer yourself as a resource. Continued engagement builds trust and influence.

• Stay Involved Year-Round
  Attend town halls, invite officials to visit your region, and collaborate with others who share your priorities to strengthen the collective rural voice.

As rural economic developers, we play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our communities. Advocacy—when done thoughtfully and consistently—ensures that rural America remains not just included, but prioritized in national conversations. I invite you to gain more strategies towards effective communication with elected officials by joining our upcoming webinar: Rural Advocacy Strategies: Winning with Practical Tactics from the Inside.  Rep. Louis Riggs has been on both sides of the desk for decades as a grassroots leader and State Representative. He will outline practical, tactical and strategic steps you can apply in your state capitol and in D.C.

Thank you for your continued leadership and dedication. I look forward to what we can accomplish together, both in D.C. and back home. As always, my "door" is open—I invite you to send me an email and connect with me on LinkedIn.

Warm regards,
Lisa Hurley
President, National Rural Economic Developers Association