By Echo Press staff

U.S. Rep. Michelle Fischbach (R-Minn.) was named a YMCA Congressional Champion in Washington, D.C., on Feb. 14 for her leadership on the bipartisan Investing in Rural America Act, a YMCA legislative priority.

“The Y is fortunate to have elected leaders such as Rep. Fischbach,” Jackie Peters, CEO of the Alexandria Area YMCA, said in a press release. “She understands that people in rural areas often have reduced access to community facilities like child care centers and hospitals. We are grateful for the congresswoman’s efforts to expand access to critical services for rural communities in Minnesota and across the nation.”

Fischbach joined the U.S. House of Representatives in 2021, representing the 7th District of Minnesota, and serves on the House Ways & Means Committee, Rules Committee, Budget Committee, and Ethics Committee.

“Her support for this provision underscores her commitment to leveraging resources and partnerships to address the infrastructure needs of rural communities,” said Peters. “It is through the dedication and leadership of individuals like Rep. Fischbach that we can make tangible progress in ensuring that every community, regardless of its size or location, has access to the essential services needed to thrive. Her advocacy for rural America reflects the core values of the YMCA, which prioritizes equity, community, and social responsibility.”

Peters presented the award during the YMCA of the USA’s National Advocacy Days. At the conference, over 400 Y leaders from across the country traveled to visit members of Congress to discuss the vital role that Ys play in communities nationwide and to urge them to advance policies that empower young people, improve the health and well-being of people of all ages and foster social responsibility.