Ep #31: Strategic Advocacy: Influencing Public Policy on Capitol Hill with Dan Kelly

This week, Dr. Hoby Wedler is joined by Dan Kelly, the Vice President of Public Policy for the National Association for the Employment of People Who Are Blind (NAEPB) and President and CEO of IFB Solutions. Dan is a dedicated advocate for the blind and visually impaired community, whose unwavering dedication shines through every aspect of his work. He discusses his experience with retinitis pigmentosa, a condition that has affected three generations of his family, and how it has shaped his path.   As you'll hear, Dan's strategic leadership and passionate advocacy are focused this year on one simple, uncomplicated ask on Capitol Hill. He details ongoing efforts to expand the AbilityOne® Program, aiming to increase employment opportunities for BVI individuals. The key initiative includes urging Congress to mandate the Department of Defense's allocation of 1% of their procurement budget to this program. If successful, this push would double current employment opportunities and create a significant impact in the community. Tune in this week to learn about the intricate process of legislative advocacy and the importance of personal stories in driving policy change.   For full transcript and show notes, please visit: https://heardandempowered.org/31