Advocacy Alert: The time to contact your representatives in Washington, D.C., is now.
?? Urgent Action Needed: Help Reinstate Funding for International Exchange Programs ?? The U.S. Department of State’s pause on international exchange program funding has now exceeded the initial 15-day hold, and the consequences are already being felt. We estimate a loss of over $66,500 in Northwest Florida in canceled hotel room nights, transportation, workshops, and other associated costs, including outstanding vendor invoices. For every $1 of federal funds spent, local communities see an $11 return in economic activity. That means the Pensacola area alone faces a $731,500 economic loss in the first three months of 2025. I’m reaching out because I need your help. Contact your members of Congress and urge them to use their influence to lift the U.S. State Department’s restriction on funding for these critical programs. These international exchange programs enjoy bipartisan support and are crucial in strengthening our economy and national security. Let Congress know how vital these programs are for the 76 communities that host the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) and how they contribute to a stronger, more connected global community. This is urgent—the more voices we have, the more likely we will see action. We need to act now. Please join me in taking immediate steps to restore support for these essential exchanges. #InternationalExchanges #BipartisanSupport #EconomicImpact #NationalSecurity #ActionNeeded