Legislative Education and Action Day | Must Read LEADing The Way The annual Legislative Education and Action Day brings promotional products professionals to the nation’s capital to advocate for the needs and interests of the industry. By Rachel Zoch EVERY YEAR, the Association recruits volunteers to travel to Washington to advocate for the promotional products industry, educating members of Congress and their staffers on the industry’s economic impact and asking for consideration on issues that matter most to promo pros. More than 70 members, along with key PPAI staff, are traveling to the nation’s capital this month for the annual Legislative Education and Action Day, better known as LEAD. “I love our industry, and advocating for it in Washington feels like my way of contributing to its future –ensuring we’re still standing strong for generations to come,” says Dana Porter, MAS, vice president of information services for SAGE and a member of PPAI’s Government Relations Action Council. “There’s something truly powerful about being on Capitol Hill, walking those historic halls and sitting down with representatives who help shape the future of our country,” Porter adds. “It gives you a real sense of purpose, knowing you’re playing a role in making sure our industry is heard and supported.” This year, thanks to the Association’s partnership with Thorn Run Partners, a top 10 Washington lobbying firm, PPAI members will have Capitol insiders guiding the way as they visit congressional offices. “With the Thorn Run team on site throughout the LEAD program, PPAI members can expect full support, including detailed guides to help navigate each meeting, comprehensive training to prepare for discussions and well-crafted talking points to effectively communicate our key messages,” says Chris Lamond, founding partner of Thorn Run Partners. “We’ll be there every step of the way to ensure every conversation is productive, impactful and aligned with our legislative goals.” PPAI • APRIL 2025 • 39
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