Congress Heads Home: Time To Advocate For Your Refuge

As August approaches, so does a key opportunity for Refuge Friends groups across the country to make a big impact. On August 2, Congress will begin its annual summer recess—a four-week period when lawmakers return to their home districts. This is a golden opportunity for you to engage with your elected officials directly in their local offices or, better yet, at your national wildlife refuge.

Summer recess is a time-tested moment to advocate for the needs of your refuge and the National Wildlife Refuge System more broadly. Whether it’s arranging a site visit, hosting a guided tour, or sitting down for a district office meeting, your voice as a constituent and a Friend is powerful. Legislators need to hear directly from the people who know these lands best—and that’s you.

To help guide and strengthen your advocacy, the Coalition of Refuge Friends and Advocates (CORFA) and the National Wildlife Refuge Association have teamed up to create the 2025 Recess Action Kit. This toolkit includes everything you need to effectively communicate with lawmakers and make the case for strong policies and funding for your local refuge.

🎒 What’s Inside the 2025 Recess Action Kit?

Your story and perspective are invaluable to members of Congress as they consider legislation and funding priorities. Remember, your voice matters. When you speak up for your refuge, you’re speaking up for wildlife, public lands, and future generations.

📣 Take Action

We encourage you to schedule a meeting or refuge visit with your congressional representatives during the August recess. After your meeting, please send a short summary to:

Thank you for all you do to support the National Wildlife Refuge System. Let’s make this summer a season of strong, visible advocacy for the places we love.