Welcome to the Advocacy Working Group (AWG)
At the Advocacy Working Group, we believe that empowered communities are the cornerstone of lasting environmental change.
Whether you’re new to advocacy or a seasoned water quality warrior, our group is designed to equip you with the tools, knowledge, and support to make a difference in your local community. By working together, we amplify our voices to influence policies, promote sustainable practices, and protect the waters we all depend on.
Become a trained Water Quality Advocate.
The Advocacy Working Group (AWG) is committed to empowering individuals and communities to advocate for clean water, environmental justice, and resilience within the White Oak River Basin. We provide valuable resources to educate, support, and connect members with local governments, ensuring that the voices of our communities are heard and represented in environmental decision-making.
Our Mission for the Advocacy Working Group: To create and support a network of advocates who can influence policy, educate their communities, and drive positive change in water quality and environmental resilience in coastal North Carolina.
Why Join AWG?
- Access to Resources: As an AWG member, you’ll have access to a wealth of educational materials, including guides on effective advocacy, policy tools, and training videos designed to make advocacy easy and impactful. These resources are designed to help you speak confidently on issues that affect your community.
- Connection with Experts: You’ll regularly meet with Coastal Carolina Riverwatch (CCRW) staff and other experienced advocates to discuss the latest efforts, share your insights, and learn from experts in the field.
- Advocacy Training: Our bi-monthly meetings offer hands-on training in advocacy techniques, empowering you to take on local issues like stormwater management, sediment control, and sustainable development.
- Community Support: AWG is a community of dedicated advocates. Our meetings offer the opportunity to connect with like-minded water quality warriors and share strategies that strengthen collective efforts.
Upcoming Meetings:
- AWG meets every other month to discuss current advocacy efforts and offer advice from CCRW staff and AWG members.
- Next Meeting Date: Email Waterkeeper@coastalcarolinariverwatch.org for meeting dates and invitations to virtual meetings.
- Location: Meetings are virtual/online. There will be opportunities to meet in-person with AWG team members as requested.
- Meeting Agenda:
- Community observations and discussions
- Advocacy training and resources sharing
- Support for ongoing advocacy efforts
- Connecting with other AWG members
Available Resources:
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- Stormwater Ordinance Review Support and Basin Planning Presentation: In collaboration with the Eastern Carolina COG, AWG members can access resources to help local governments review and update stormwater ordinances to better manage environmental impact.
- Cost-Share Programs: Learn how property owners can install stormwater management systems like rain gardens through cost-share programs. Click here to access the video.
- Public Comment Resources: Access training and templates for writing effective public comment letters on environmental policies.
- Muddy Water Watch Training: Participate in hands-on sediment and erosion control training designed for coastal areas.
Click here to access all available resources.
Get Involved:
- Volunteer Opportunities: AWG offers various volunteer roles, from organizing events to leading training sessions. Explore how you can contribute!
Sign up for email alerts or contact Waterkeeper@coastalcarolinariverwatch.org if you have questions about the AWG.
Join the Advocacy Work Group Today – Click Here!
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