Update on lobbying efforts

Your calls and letters really did make a difference.  The needs of our kids are now on the front burner of Kentucky politics thanks to you.  Read the e-mail below for an update on our lobbying efforts.

Bill

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From: Michelle Sanborn [mailto:Michelle@childrensallianceky.org]

Subject: Advocacy At Work!

Wow! What an exciting time in the life of the Children's Alliance.  The reception held for Governor Fletcher and Secretary Birdwhistell on Friday, May 11 was a huge success.  Thank you to all those who could attend, the Governor appreciated your warm reception.  For those who could not make this event, you missed a great time.  Governor Fletcher, Secretary Mark Birdwhistell, Undersecretary Tom Emberton, Commissioner Mark Washington, Executive Officer Jeff Jamar and Legislative Director Rob Edwards were all recognized for their advocacy efforts and for supporting our services by funding a much needed rate increase for residential services.

The Governor again commended our "lobbying" efforts saying how impressed he was to see Children's Alliance representatives at the Town Hall Forums he hosted throughout the State.  Secretary Birdwhistell continued the accolades by sharing that at a recent meeting of community providers, Senator Dan Kelly stood up and encouraged other associations to learn from the advocacy efforts of the Children's Alliance.  Both the Governor and Secretary Birdwhistell, maintained that they understand our issue and want to support us in the coming year.  Our collective voice was heard and our efforts are making an impact!!!

Additionally, Gubernatorial Candidate Otis Hensley contacted the Children's Alliance this week to invite members to attend his press conference at the Capitol on Friday, May 18, and he earnestly said, "out of all the groups I met with during my campaign, your group impressed me the most."  Legislators, lobbyists and executive branch officials are all buzzing about the advocacy efforts of the Children's Alliance - we need to be proud! 

I can't stress enough how the grassroots efforts, Board Member Advocacy Council and our collective voice had an impact, but we must ALL work together!  Thanks so much for your active participation this year and we look forward to a dynamic 2008 Session.

Michelle Sanborn
Children's Alliance
420 Capital Avenue
Frankfort, KY 40601
502-320-6484
michelle@childrensallianceky.org