April in Action: Grassroots Advocacy at the State and Federal Levels

April was a busy and energizing month for advocacy across the states and at the federal level. Throughout the month, advocates showed up in meaningful ways. Meeting with policymakers, building partnerships, and elevating health priorities in their communities. Here’s a look back at the impactful advocacy efforts that took place in April.

Rhode Island: Inspiring a Tobacco-Free Future

On April 14, advocates from across Rhode Island gathered at the State House for Inspiring a Tobacco-Free Rhode Island Day of Action. Advocates spent the afternoon engaging with legislators, sharing personal stories, and advocating for strong tobacco prevention and control policies.

This event was hosted in collaboration with the American Lung Association and the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network, highlighting the power of partnership in advancing public health priorities. The strong turnout and unified message demonstrated widespread support for a tobacco-free Rhode Island.

Vermont: Heart-Powered Food Is Medicine Day

On April 8, advocates from across Vermont participated in Heart-Powered Food Is Medicine Day. Advocates met with state policymakers to emphasize the importance of Food Is Medicine initiatives and the role they play in preventing and managing chronic disease.
By sharing stories and policy priorities, advocates helped reinforce that access to nutritious food is a critical component of health equity and improved outcomes. Vermont’s advocates played a key role in elevating this issue and strengthening momentum at the State House.

National Volunteer Week Appreciation

During National Volunteer Week, advocates in Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Rhode Island, and Vermont received thank-you messages recognizing their dedication and impact. These acknowledgments honored the time, energy, and commitment advocates bring to grassroots organizing and policy change across the region. Take a moment to watch a short thank you message from our CEO, Nancy Brown.

Federal Advocacy: Hearts on the Hill

At the federal level, advocates from Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, and New Jersey traveled to Washington, DC, for Hearts on the Hill on April 15–16. Over two days, advocates held productive meetings with multiple congressional offices, focusing on the importance of securing funding for the HEARTS Act.

Advocates shared firsthand experiences from their states and made a compelling case for sustained federal investment in heart health, prevention, and equity. These conversations reinforced the critical role grassroots voices play in shaping federal policy.