Washington, DC – U.S. Representative Heath Shuler’s efforts to work with regional development organizations to improve local economies and bolster development were recognized this afternoon as he was awarded the 2010 Congressional Partnership Award Today from the National Association of Development Organizations (NADO).
NADO works with 520 regional development organizations across the United States to provide advocacy, education, networking, research and training. Land-of-Sky Regional Council, the Sequoyah Fund, High Country Council of Governments, and Region A Southwestern Commission are all NADO members.
“I am exceedingly proud of the work of Western North Carolina’s regional development organizations that do so much to bolster economic growth and improve the quality of life in our local communities,” Rep. Heath Shuler (D-Waynesville) said after receiving the award. “I’m honored to receive this award and grateful to have these organizations as partners, working together to strengthen our mountain region.”
According to NADO President Michael Norton, Rep. Shuler was selected because of his “outstanding and steadfast support for federal policies and programs that encourage regional solutions and approaches to improving local services, economic conditions and community prosperity.” Rep. Shuler also received the biennial NADO Congressional Partnership Award in for his work during the 110th Congress.
NADO Board Member and Executive Director of Land-of-Sky Regional Council Joe McKinney (Asheville) stated, “Rep. Shuler is a true leader who has displayed an unwavering commitment to providing new economic opportunities for our local communities. Most importantly, Rep. Shuler understands that federal programs for basic infrastructure, small business development, job creation and comprehensive economic development planning are essential for the long-term competitiveness of our local communities, especially during these tough economic times.”
_____
Note: the attached photos include Rep. Heath Shuler, Joe McKinney, and Betty Huskins.
###