Advocacy

Advocacy is central to our mission. We serve as a unifying voice for Colorado’s workforce system promoting policies, funding, and practices that strengthen regional economies, support workforce professionals, and create equitable access to employment opportunities for all Coloradans.

What We Advocate For

Sustainable Workforce Funding

We champion reliable federal and state funding for workforce development programs to ensure local areas can deliver impactful services.

Policy Alignment & Modernization

We work closely with state agencies and partners to advocate for policies that reflect the needs of both rural and urban communities, reduce administrative burden, and modernize workforce delivery.

Opportunity and Access

We advocate for inclusive policies and practices that eliminate barriers for underserved populations and promote equitable access to training, employment, and career advancement.

Workforce Innovation

We support policy initiatives that encourage innovation in workforce strategies, including technology adoption, work-based learning, and responsive training aligned with employer needs.

Who We Work With

  • Colorado Department of Labor and Employment (CDLE)
  • Colorado Workforce Development Council (CWDC)
  • Colorado Department of Human Services (CDHS)
  • Local Workforce Development Boards
  • State legislators and federal representatives
  • Community-based organizations and economic development leaders

How We Amplify the Workforce Voice

  • Provide input on state and federal workforce legislation
  • Serve on state-level committees and advisory groups
  • Engage with local leaders to communicate community workforce needs
  • Share success stories and outcomes that demonstrate impact
  • Host policy-focused sessions during conferences and events

Together, we shape a stronger, more responsive workforce system that works for everyone.

Key Differences Between Lobbying & Advocacy

Advocacy

  • Broad effort to influence public opinion and promote a cause.
  • Focuses on raising awareness about issues.
  • Includes activities like educating the public, sharing personal stories, and organizing community efforts.
  • Does NOT involve asking legislators to take a specific action on a bill.
  • Advocacy is about building awareness; lobbying is about taking action on legislation.

Lobbying

  • A subset of advocacy that involves influencing specific legislation.
  • Focuses on persuading lawmakers to enact, amend, or oppose bills.
  • Includes direct communication with policymakers or their staff.
  • Often requires compliance with specific regulations and reporting requirements.
  • All lobbying is advocacy, but not all advocacy is lobbying. 
  • Formal partnership between RMWDA & Bowditch & Cassell Public Affairs!