For more information, contact:
Iowa Citizens for Community Improvement
Hugh Espey, 515-255-0800, hugh@iowacci.org
Kristin Schaaf, 515-255-0800, kristin@iowacci.org
For Immediate Release
Iowa CCI Named as an MVP by the Nation Magazine
Monday, January 4, 2010, Des Moines, Iowa — The Nation magazine has named Iowa Citizens for Community Improvement (Iowa CCI) the "Most Valuable Grassroots Advocacy Group" in the United States in 2009. Click here to read the story, which was written by John Nichols.
Nichols writes, "Although the MVP list, which makes its print debut here, focuses on individuals and organizations, it is really about issues and ideas. As such, the point is not to identify perfect players so much as to make note of activists and activist groups that may not get enough recognition but that are having a demonstrable effect – in Washington and around the country."
CCI members believe that community organizing is the most effective means for engaging everyday people in grassroots democracy and winning long-term social change that makes our state, and country, more just and democratic. Iowa CCI mobilizes thousands of Iowans each year to tackle tough issues, stand up for what's right, put pressure where it needs to be put and get things done.
“The recognition is a great honor for us, but it's also very humbling since we know there are so many deserving groups doing great work across the United States,” said Hugh Espey, Executive Director of Iowa CCI.
“We count on The Nation to stand with us and many other like-minded organizations as we speak truth to power and fight for justice, democracy, fairness, dignity and ultimately, a better life for a lot more people,” Espey said. “We consider ourselves in excellent company with John Nichols and The Nation.”
“We are thankful for those who believe in and support our mission and work,” Espey added. “Our funders - foundation, business, church – and our members. CCI members are what make us the strong organization we are today.”
CCI members will continue to stand up for what’s right and ask elected officials to put people first at their Rally & Lobby Day Jan. 26 at the State Capitol. CCI will call on legislators to stand on the side of everyday people, not big-money special interests.
Iowa Citizens for Community Improvement is a group of everyday people who talk, act and get things done on issues that matter most. With thousands of members from all walks of life – urban and rural, black and white, immigrants and lifelong Iowans – CCI has been tackling tough issues and getting things done for nearly 35 years.
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