The following audio conferences took place in conjunction with the National Conference of State Legislatures.
State Poverty Taskforces and Summits
June 27, 2008
Many states have launched comprehensive efforts to address the multifaceted aspects of poverty by creating task forces or commissions, setting poverty reduction targets, and holding summits to raise awareness of the issue and consider solutions. This call provided an opportunity to learn why several states have formed task forces or commissions on poverty, what these states hope to accomplish through these groups, and the types of recommendations task forces are developing to address poverty. The call also discussed state summits on poverty, particularly how these events hope to propel state action and positive change for families in need.
Experts on the call included Minnesota State Representative Morrie Lanning; Greg Landsman from Ohio Governor Strickland’s Office of Faith Based and Community Initiatives; Mary Sheka from the Office of Iowa First Lady Mari Culver and Erin Andrew from Iowa Governor Chet Culver’s Office; and Charles Jones from the Michigan Department of Human Services.
Please click here to listen to the audio conference.
Developing Communications Strategies to Address Poverty
May 22, 2008
In conjunction with the National Conference of State Legislatures, NGA recently held an audio conference on developing communications strategies to address poverty. Across the country, a number of states have launched comprehensive efforts, established commissions, and/or set targets to reduce poverty. In order for efforts to be successful, however, the economic and social consequences of poverty must resonate with state leaders and citizens across the political spectrum. This call provided a forum for experts to discuss how state policymakers can engage members of both political parties to jointly develop solutions to poverty, gauge public interest, and effectively communicate poverty issues to a broad range of stakeholders. Discussions also included how states and others can increase media coverage regarding family economic success and strategies to partner with local media outlets. Experts on the call included Sylvia Burgos Toftness, Northwest Area Foundation; Jim McLaughlin, McLaughlin and Associates; Tom Freedman, Freedman Consulting; and Amy Rynell, Heartland Alliance.
