On May 23, members will take to the Capitol for meetings with lawmakers from their home states.

To prepare, as part of the Summit, we have panels and speakers that will provide insightful updates on the Federal Budget, regulation changes, and political trends. And we intend to take time during our Annual Meeting to go over our Hill packet, have discussion, and answer each other's questions.

But none of this matters if you have not scheduled your meetings! If you have questions about how to prioritize your state's house and senate delegation, please let me know.

In an effort to maximize our impact on the issues we care about, we are also asking Hill Day attendees to make appointments with lobbyists acting on behalf of your state's governor. You should make appointments with your senators and representatives. These local relationships are critical. READ ON

WASHINGTON, DC and NEW YORK, MAY 2012 – The National Alliance of Community Economic Development Associations (NACEDA) and The National Development Council (NDC) announced that the two organizations have entered into a broad strategic partnership focused on expanding community development capacity, advocacy and professional training opportunities across the nation. The agreement includes a joint commitment to assist community and economic development practitioners in the challenges they face; strengthen and enhance practitioners’ capacity to accomplish their important work; and advocate for sound public policy and support a common vision.