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On Friday, October 17, participants and graduates of the Leadership Bend program met with Congresswoman Janelle Bynum and her team for a dynamic roundtable discussion. The conversation provided an opportunity to learn about the Congresswoman’s priorities and gain insight into the current landscape in Congress, while also sharing valuable perspectives from Central Oregon’s private, public, and nonprofit sectors.
The dialogue covered a wide range of issues affecting our region—including economic development needs, barriers to workforce housing, the rising cost of living, and the importance of consistent federal funding for nonprofits and infrastructure projects. Participants also engaged in thoughtful discussion on health care policy and mental health, emphasizing the need for collaborative, community-driven solutions.
The visit was a great reminder of how programs like Leadership Bend help strengthen our community. By bringing together people who care deeply about Central Oregon and giving them a chance to connect directly with leaders like Congresswoman Bynum, the program helps turn ideas into action. Participants left feeling energized and inspired to take what they learned back to their workplaces and communities—continuing to make a difference right here at home.
This exchange underscored the power of civic leadership and the importance of connecting local voices with national decision-makers to strengthen the Central Oregon community.
