Advocating for Those We Serve: United Way's 10th Annual Legislative Breakfast
From left: Noreen J. Dunnells, President & CEO of United Way of Lane County; Rep. Charlie Conrad, Rep. Julie Fahey, Rep. John Lively, and Alma Fumiko Hesus, VP of Resource Development at United Way of Lane County.
Earlier this month, 42 nonprofits and community leaders gathered with local elected officials for United Way’s 10th annual Legislative Breakfast. The event provided the chance for Lane County social service leaders and local students to speak directly with legislators, which included Representatives Julie Fahey, John Lively, and Charlie Conrad.
Nonprofit leaders raised concerns about complex community challenges they’re facing, from housing and child care to funding challenges and workforce shortages. Organizations who work with young children highlighted the need for workforce development, particularly in mental and behavioral health.
This year was the first time United Way has hosted a satellite location during this event, allowing the West Lane / Siuslaw community to more easily join the conversation and build a sense of community. This satellite event, hosted at Boys & Girls Club of Western Lane County and led by United Way’s Rural Engagement Coordinator, Anika, brought together 12 West Lane community members for this important conversation. With over a quarter of Lane County residents living in rural areas, the input of rural community members is a vital piece of shaping legislation for all in our county.
“The Siuslaw satellite event saw an encouraging presence of youth, who brought a fresh perspective to the discussions. Their active participation not only enriched the dialogue but also highlighted the importance of involving younger generations in legislative matters. The success of their involvement underscores the potential of such platforms in fostering civic engagement among youth, ensuring their ideas and concerns are part of the broader community discourse.”
Also new this year were the voices of local students at the Legislative Breakfast. Previous years have exclusively featured the input of nonprofit leaders and partners, but this year’s audience included four students from Mapleton High School. These students prepared thoughtful questions to ask of the legislators, and brought a new perspective to this conversation as the next generation of leaders.
The Legislative Breakfast is an annual event of the Human Service Forum, and part of United Way of Lane County’s work to build capacity within the nonprofit sector and bring people together to improve outcomes for all in our community. Learn more about United Way’s convening work at unitedwaylane.org.