Update from the road: Partnerships on the BzzzTour

Our work wouldn’t be as strong as it is without the help of our partners, and this summer’s cross-country BzzzTour is a great example of that collaboration.  Junior Chamber International (JCI) spearheaded the BzzzTour, and on many stops along the way, worked closely with representatives from the United Nations Association (UNA) and the United Methodist Church (UMC) to make these stops a success. This has resulted in more effective congressional meetings, larger events, and a stronger national presence. To recap, the BzzzTour most recently made stops in Texas, Missouri, and Iowa: 

In Texas, the BzzzTour hit Houston and was greeted by the UNA Houston Chapter, longtime Nothing But Nets supporters, as well as by Michael Hesse, one of our newest and most creative champions. The group met with the offices of Sen. John Cornyn and Sen. Ted Cruz, as well as Rep. John Culberson, who were very receptive to the group’s message about the importance of U.S. leadership in the fight against malaria. 

In Missouri, JCI organized a panel discussion featuring JCI leadership including Arrey Obenson, Deputy Secretary General, and Chrystal Ramsay-Dyess, Immediate Past President. It also featured Dr. Daniel Goldberg, Professor of Medicine and Co-Chief of the Division of Infectious Diseases at Washington University in St. Louis. The BzzzTour also held 5 congressional meetings throughout the state, including the offices of Sen. Claire McCaskill, Sen. Blunt, Rep. Luetkemeyer, and Rep. Wm. Lacy Clay.  

Then it was on to Iowa, where we were joined by the UNA Iowa Division and the UMC. Throughout five different in-district meetings in Iowa City, Des Moines, and Ames, the group spoke with the offices of Rep. Dave Loebsack, Rep. Tom Latham, Rep. Steve King, Sen. Tom Harkin, and Sen. Chuck Grassley. These meetings enabled us to demonstrate that Iowans from all walks of life care deeply about protecting lives from malaria, whether they are a Jaycee, a United Methodist, or a UNA member. 

Thanks to all of our partners who make this possible!  To read more about our partners, click here