I have been attending the Advocacy Days for several years now. Initially, I did it out of obligation to the industry, but I have since learned that the “true value” is in the relationships you build in the process. When you get to hear members from all different sizes of organizations tell their stories about the impact an issue or piece of legislation is having on their businesses and employees, it becomes real and purposeful. Thank you for making this a great experience.

Participating in ABMA Advocacy Day is an invaluable opportunity. Engaging in discussions with the teams of elected officials about matters pertinent to our business is not only empowering but also essential. Witnessing some of the topics we championed last year progress from the House to the Senate was very encouraging. Yet, amidst all the activities, what truly stood out was the sense of camaraderie among the diverse state and local chapters uniting with one voice.

I attended ABMA Advocacy Day because as a family-owned and -operated LBM business in New Jersey, having the opportunity to join a migration of so many others in the same space coordinated by the NRLA and ABMA allows us to blitz many of our elected officials in Washington, D.C., on the same day to hopefully leave a lasting impact. Our voice not only matters, but united, we are stronger together.

I’ve had the opportunity to attend Advocacy Day for the past several years to meet with our legislators face-to-face and to discuss with them not only the issues that are important to our individual businesses but also the things that are facing our industry as well. This is a rewarding experience, and I always leave feeling like, in a small way, I’ve been able to help make a difference. Together, our voice is stronger.

Every year brings a new experience to Washington, D.C., and this year was letting everyone know, “Your Voice Matters.”

I decided to go to Advocacy Day to continue to give our industry a voice at the national level. I was hoping to have relevant discussions with staff members of the Senate and House. We were fortunate to actually get to sit with Representative Amo from Rhode Island, who was engaged and showed genuine interest in our talking points.

I’ve been attending Advocacy Day for years. I do it because I want to give back to the industry that has given me so much over my career. When it comes to politicians taking notice, there’s strength in number of attendees.

My favorite moment was when we walked into Senator Sanders’ office and saw five high-ranking staffers waiting for us. They were receptive, respectful, authentic, and engaged.

With the goal of representing Connecticut retailers in Washington, D.C., I embarked on a whirlwind day filled with meetings. The aim was to meet as many representatives as possible to have great conversations and secure valuable assistance for our issues. The highlight of my day was attending a hearing with Janet Yellen, a truly enriching experience!

I have been going to D.C. with the NRLA for about 18 years, thanks to support from Curtis Lumber and ENYLDA. I now let the new participants speak first and chime in where needed. I would encourage more companies to attend—it’s easy, and the veterans will help newcomers. Please support the event!

The reason why I came is simple: to be the voice for our industry. We all have an equal opportunity and an equal say in this country to voice our concerns and express our appreciation to those elected to govern. Every year I go, and I hope I leave an impression on someone in D.C. I hope a story or an experience I share with our elected officials will strike a nerve and help them decide to do what’s best for our industry and our families.

I was a little trepid leading up to it, but when the day came, it was exhilarating and an honor to be there.

Meeting with our delegation made me realize just how important it is for real people to give our elected officials real-world feedback and input.

Thank you to ABMA for setting the stage to visit with our elected officials in Washington, D.C., and raising awareness on important issues that are impacting the LBM industry. Count me in for next year!

I like to attend to see our government at work; the ability to walk the halls and meet with the staff is truly an amazing experience. I took the opportunity to bring my daughter Alyvia; although she doesn’t say much, I think she thoroughly enjoyed the experience, from meeting new people to seeing the incredible sights. I highly recommend this expedition if you have never gone. It’s such a neat experience. Oh, and the food was out of this world!

I came because I really want to be part of the positive change in our industry. Having done this three times, I knew what to expect. I think it’s great to be able to meet directly with our officials. It’s empowering to know that we, as citizens, have a voice. My favorite part of the experience was just that. Having a voice and advocating for positive changes in our industry was a privilege.