Volunteer Opportunity
Advocacy Committee – Volunteer Position
Florida Downtown Association, Inc.
Commitment: Approximately 2-5 hours per month
Meetings: Monthly virtual Committee Meeting
Term Length: 3-year Board term; 2-year Officer term
About the Committee
The Advocacy Committee plays a vital role in advancing the mission of the Florida Downtown Association (FLDA) by serving as the organization’s voice on legislative and policy issues impacting downtowns and Main Street communities across the state. The committee is responsible for tracking state legislation that may affect downtown revitalization, economic development, historic preservation, small businesses, and community investment. Members review proposed bills, discuss potential impacts, and develop recommended positions for consideration by the FLDA Board of Directors. Once positions are approved, the committee works collaboratively with FLDA’s Education and Communications Committees to ensure timely, accurate information is shared with members. In addition to policy tracking, the Advocacy Committee builds and maintains relationships with state legislators and key partners, advocates for resources that support downtown and Main Street programs, and helps ensure FLDA remains informed, credible, and engaged during the legislative process. This committee meets monthly and plays an active, hands-on role throughout the year, particularly during the legislative session. Members should expect to contribute between meetings, assist with assigned work tasks, and support deadlines related to education and communications efforts.
About the Role
Advocacy Committee Members support the Florida Downtown Association (FLDA) by helping advance the organization’s legislative and policy priorities on behalf of downtowns and Main Street communities across Florida. Members play an active role in monitoring legislation, evaluating potential impacts, and supporting FLDA’s advocacy, education, and communications efforts throughout the year. This role is best suited for individuals who are interested in statewide issues, willing to engage in meaningful discussion, and able to commit time to assigned tasks and deadlines.
EXPECTATIONS & REQUIREMENTS
Participate in monthly committee meetings and actively engage in discussions.
Review and track state legislation that may impact downtowns, Main Street programs, economic development, historic preservation, and community investment.
Assist in evaluating proposed bills and contributing to recommended positions for review and approval by the FLDA Board of Directors.
Support the development of clear, accurate information to be shared with FLDA members in coordination with the Education and Communications Committees.
Assist with advocacy efforts and relationship-building with state legislators and key partners on behalf of FLDA.
Complete assigned work tasks between meetings, including research, review, or content support, within established deadlines.
Represent FLDA in a professional, informed, and collaborative manner when participating in advocacy-related activities.
Who Should Apply?
The Advocacy Committee is open to anyone interested in supporting advocacy efforts for Florida’s downtowns, including downtown and Main Street professionals, board members, local government staff, private-sector partners, and community advocates. A willingness to participate actively and meet commitments is essential.
Serving on the Advocacy Committee offers members the opportunity to:
Help shape FLDA’s legislative priorities and policy positions.
Gain a deeper understanding of how state legislation impacts downtowns and Main Street communities.
Strengthen relationships with peers and leaders from across Florida.
Build experience in advocacy, policy review, and strategic collaboration.
Contribute directly to protecting and advancing the resources that support vibrant, successful downtowns.
Committee service provides a meaningful way to move beyond awareness and into action; ensuring that Florida’s downtowns have a strong, informed voice at the state level.