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Government & Community RelationsThe Air & Space Forces Association (AFA) Wright Memorial Chapter (WMC) recognizes that every member plays a vital role in fostering strong government and community relationships. These connections help shape public policy strategies that support national defense priorities, active duty personnel, civilian employees, veterans, and family-focused initiatives. Our key partnerships include Federal and State Senators and Representatives, as well as strategic liaisons with local organizations such as Wright-Patterson Air Force Base (WPAFB), Springfield Air National Guard, the Air Force Reserve unit at WPAFB, the Dayton Development Coalition, the Miami Valley Military Affairs Committee, and area Chambers of Commerce. |
Our Advocacy Role
Advocacy within the AFA WMC is a dynamic, multi-layered effort that spans three core areas:
1. Advocacy and Influence
- Monitoring legislative and regulatory developments: We stay informed on proposed legislation, regulations, and policies that may affect our mission, members, and the broader defense community.
- Lobbying and direct engagement: We craft and implement strategies to influence government decisions—through direct outreach to lawmakers, testimony at hearings, and relationship-building with key officials.
- Grassroots mobilization: We empower AFA members and local communities to engage with elected officials and voice their perspectives on critical policy issues.
2. Relationship Building and Communication
- Government partnerships: We cultivate strong, respectful relationships with lawmakers, regulators, and government leaders to advance our priorities and gain insight into policy processes.
- Stakeholder communication: We keep our leadership, members, and partners informed about relevant developments and clearly communicate our positions on emerging issues.
- Media outreach: We collaborate with media outlets to amplify our message and raise awareness of our chapter’s priorities and impact.
3. Strategic Planning and Analysis
- Political landscape assessment: We analyze elections, public sentiment, and shifts in political power to inform our advocacy strategy.
- Policy development: We work with internal stakeholders to shape thoughtful, forward-looking positions on key issues.
- Impact measurement: We track progress toward our advocacy goals and evaluate the effectiveness of our strategies to ensure continuous improvement.
Your Voice Matters
Advocacy can feel daunting—some may wonder if one person can truly make a difference. But by shifting your perspective (focusing on impact, thinking cumulatively, embracing your unique contribution) and taking action (starting small and local, connecting with others, celebrating shared wins), you reinforce your sense of agency and fuel meaningful change. Government and community relations matter. Your voice matters. Use it—because together, we make a difference.