Grassroots Resources

Whether it’s federal legislation, national issues or discussions in other states, at the end of the day, all politics is local. Get involved in grassroots advocacy by connecting with your state affiliate, scheduling meetings with members of congress, attending a local fundraiser, representing ANDPAC at an affiliate meeting or finding active state legislation that may be relevant to Academy policy priority issue areas.

In the states and localities, the Academy acts as a coach and consultant to members by providing strategic advice and resources to facilitate successful representations by Academy leaders. When members, staff and political action come together to deliver the right fact-based message, at the right time, in the right place, important things can happen!  Some of the advocacy leadership roles available to members at the affiliate level include:

Public Policy Coordinator

Each affiliate establishes at least one Academy Public Policy Coordinator position to work on policy issues. This person serves as key connection/conduit between Academy government relations and grassroots leaders on Academy public policy stances and processes, and helps ensure that the Academy speaks with a single voice on public policy matters. He or she is a member of the affiliate's Public Policy Panel and, in many cases, is the chair.

Affiliate Public Policy Panels

A common structure in all states to strategize and manage self-representation in public campaigns and advocacy is the Public Policy Panel or similar group. The panel oversees strategy, coordination, placement and education of affiliate members in advocacy and outreach.

State Policy Representative

Responsible for tracking state legislative and regulatory issues of importance to RDNs and NDTRs, the State Policy Representative coordinates affiliate appointments with state contacts, such as the governor's office, state food, nutrition and health officials, and state legislators. This individual also is a member of the Public Policy Panel.

Contact your state affiliate to learn more about available leadership roles and use the member resources on eatrightPRO.org to get involved!