ABOUT ACTION 22

The Only Regional Organization Working on Issues Affecting the Area

Action 22 is a volunteer-driven membership organization of individuals, cities, communities, counties, associations, businesses and organizations in a 22-county region, banding together for a stronger voice on statewide discussion tables, the State Legislature and in Washington, D.C. Action 22's mission is to serve as a leader for cohesive action to affect change and shape the future of Southern Colorado.   

Action 22 builds coalitions in support of its efforts and works to shape policies for the future of Southern Colorado. The organization represents a 36,530 sq. mile area (35% of the state) consisting of 850,000 citizens, 19.5% of the state’s population ranging from the San Luis Valley to the Kansas state line. The most effective means of affecting legislation is by grassroots advocacy efforts by our members.      The organization is run by a Board of Directors that includes up to three delegates from each of the 22 counties and each county has an equal voice.  Members residing within county boundaries elect its own delegates to the Board. The Board elects the Chair, Chair-Elect, Secretary and Treasurer.  The county board delegates from each of the regions elect Regional Vice Chairs.   The key to the success of Action 22 is the involvement of its members.  Networking and pooling members’ talents and skills builds a strong organization. It is through the committee structure that research, study and debate of issues occur. Committees then make policy and position recommendations to the Board of Directors.    

Process

It is appropriate and necessary that Action 22 take an active role in influencing the outcome of emerging issues that affect Southern Colorado.  In order to balance its grassroots control with the ability to make timely decisions, Action 22 defines specific roles for the Board, the Executive Committee, the Policy Committees and the staff in responding to issues in a manner that is consistent Action 22 policy.

Organization Chart

Issues Management Process

Committee Issues Process

VOLUNTEER HANDBOOK

History

The group was established at the Charter Convention held in Pueblo, Colorado, on January 13, 1999. A membership drive was held between February and April 1999, and county caucus meetings were held during the month of May. The first Board of Directors meeting was held June 16, 1999 followed by committee meetings in August. The organization’s first Fall Membership Conference was held September 24 and 25 at which the beginning of a legislative agenda was adopted. The Action 22 full-time office was opened and a President/COO was hired in July 2000. Membership now totals over 230 entities and over 500 representatives of individual, organization, business, city and county membership categories.  

Major Goals  

1. Continue efforts at the statewide table to resolve water issues

2. Pursue efforts to improve transportation infrastructure including major highways and air service

3. Build resources and relationships to enhance economic development to Southern Colorado.

4. Work to address cost, access and availability of medical services.

5. Pursue an aggressive program to enhance institutions of higher education and their partnership with economic development agencies.

6. Become Colorado's most effective advocacy organization by engaging legislators, other local elected officials, state agencies, membership, etc., to affect public policy for the future of Southern Colorado.  

2008-09 Action Plan

Accomplishments  

Sampling of Accomplishments

Positions & Stands

Legislative Stance 2008

Summary of Positions & Stands

Principles  

Health Principles

Higher Education Principles  

Telecommunications Principles  

Transportation Principles

Water Principles

Power Point

Presentation on Action 22