Nat Auten’s Post

This month, we engaged in meaningful advocacy efforts with both our federal and state legislative leaders. Our work began in Washington, D.C., where we met with Rep. Tim Moore, Sen. Ted Budd, Rep. Pat Harrigan, and Sen. Thom Tillis to discuss key priorities such as block grant funding for essential services like childcare, CDC funding for swim lessons and diabetes prevention, and tax reform to encourage charitable giving. Later in the month, we continued the conversation in North Carolina with Rep. Mark Hollo, Rep. Jay Adams, Rep. Heather Rhyne, Sen. Ted Alexander, Sen. Warren Daniel, and Rep. Mitchell Setzer. These conversations focused on the collective value the YMCA brings to our state, the importance of recurring funding for childcare and childcare policy reform (H412), and the growing need to support teen mental health. We are thankful for the leadership and continued support of these elected officials. It was also a joy to share dinner the night before with Will Chitwood—we're grateful for the way he kept us nourished and created a sense of family during our stay. Also grateful for Steve Hindman and Darrell Johnson for making the trip! YMCA of Catawba Valley Sue Glass Sherée Thaxton Vodicka Erica Simmons Tim Blenco