More than 100 advocates from across the country urged Congress to protect proven investments and ensure appropriated funds reach the people they were meant for.

WASHINGTON DC — This week, 103 ONE Campaign advocates from across the United States gathered in Washington, D.C., for ONE’s annual Power Summit. They visited all 535 congressional offices on Capitol Hill.

Young professionals, faith leaders, members of the African diaspora, and community advocates came from coast to coast. Their message was straightforward. America built and funded programs that save lives and strengthen economies abroad. Congress has appropriated the money. Advocates asked lawmakers to use Congress’s power of the purse to make sure those funds actually reach the programs and people they were intended for.

The multi-day summit paired policy discussions with advocacy training designed to help advocates engage their communities and policymakers.

 “This week, I’m glad to deliver a very important message on the Hill with the ONE Campaign: a letter from faith leaders from every congressional district in Pennsylvania supporting proven programs that the United States has used over the past 25 years to save more than 100 million lives,” said Pastor Matt Staniz. “Our faith drives us to support these programs that preserve human life and dignity, but they’re not only the right thing to do; the programs also protect us here in the United States.”

The summit concluded with a day of congressional meetings, where advocates called on lawmakers to uphold Congress’s responsibility for federal spending decisions by protecting effective, accountable investments in global health and development in Africa.

ONE’s Power Summit equips advocates with the knowledge and tools to make the case for policies that create economic opportunities and healthier lives in Africa while advancing U.S. interests.

About ONE:

ONE is a global, nonpartisan organization advocating for the investments needed to create economic opportunities and healthier lives in Africa. Since 2004, we have helped secure more than $1 trillion in new investments that build a safer, more prosperous world. Our trusted advocacy combines hard-hitting data, grassroots activism and political engagement to influence decision-makers and drive lasting change.