The 2008 presidential election was historic in that it reflected Americans’ overwhelming call for change in the United States. Now, the millions of people who worked hard to elect Barack Obama are asking themselves, “What’s next? How do we keep the momentum going?” 50 Ways You Can Help Obama Change America by Michael Huttner and Jason Salzman answers those questions.
From using public transportation, planting a garden, and making a YouTube video to joining the Peace Corps, testifying at a public hearing, and even running for local office, 50 Ways You Can Help Obama Change America offers concrete actions to inspire readers to get involved. The book also contains tips about how to use cell phones, text messaging, blogging, and social networking for change.
In his inauguration speech, President Obama said, “Starting today, we must pick ourselves up, dust ourselves off, and begin again the work of remaking America.” Americans who want to do what it takes see a progressive agenda succeed will find an invaluable resource guide in 50 Ways You Can Help Obama Change America.
http://www.50waysyoucanhelpobama.com
Michael Huttner is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of ProgressNow, a network of state-based online organizations. In 2003, Huttner started ProgressNow in the back of his Denver law firm with his list of 600 e-mail addresses. No longer practicing law, the 12 ProgressNow partner states’ combined membership exceeds 2 million individuals.
Jason Salzman is an activist, award-winning writer, and co-founder of Effect Communications. His articles have appeared in Newsweek, the Los Angeles Times, and other national publications. He’s also the author of Making the News: A Guide for Activists and Nonprofits. He lives in Denver.
“In 50 Ways You Can Help Obama Change America, Michael Huttner and Jason Salzman have given us a practical handbook on how every American can do something for our country. This book should be required reading for anyone interested in making a difference and helping President Obama get our nation back on track.”
—Senator Edward M. Kennedy
“Paul Simon gave us 50 ways to leave your lover. Huttner and Salzman give us 50 ways to leave your country a better place. A remarkably useful resource.”
—Arianna Huffington, Founder and Editor in Chief, The Huffington Post
“The historic election of President Obama marks a new chapter in American history, but it’s only the beginning. This book offers every American straightforward ways to help bring real, lasting change.”
—Congress Woman Donna F. Edwards
“This up-to-date guide for the hands-on activist is a must-have blueprint for every supporter who answered Barack Obama’s phrase, ‘Fired up,’ with ‘Ready to go!”
—Markos Moulitsas Zúniga, Founder, Daily Kos
“Obama is an opportunity, not our solution. He’ll succeed in Washington only if we the people get organized, hit the streets, and demand change. This book explains how you can do your part.”
—Ben Cohen, Co-Founder, Ben and Jerry’s
“The last election was merely a first step. We must now bring that same enthusiasm and determination to bear in order to get our country back on the right track. This book is a road map for anyone looking to make a difference.”
—Senator Russ Feingold
“Electing Barack Obama to the presidency is the beginning of the journey, not the end. The real agenda is not to have a Democrat in the White House but to give ordinary Americans some say again. Huttner and Salzman show how we can do that.”
—Governor Howard Dean
“Barack Obama made public service ‘cool.’ 50 Ways will help make it effective. Whatever your personal call to service, 50 Ways has the resources you need to make a difference.”
—Christine Pelosi, Campaign Boot Camp:
Basic Training for Future Leaders
“During his campaign, Obama empowered all of us to take part in initiating change, and it’s imperative that we keep that momentum going by involving the next generation. This book is a great resource to encourage young people to embrace their civic responsibilities.”
—Jessica Alba
“The 2008 election promised change, but achieving it means actively helping President Obama champion a progressive agenda. This book is a road map. Use it to help the president make that agenda a reality.”
—David Sirota, The Uprising: An Unauthorized Tour of the
Populist Revolt Scaring Wall Street and Washington
“If you were one of the 69,492,376 Americans who voted for Barack Obama, your work has just begun. Huttner and Salzman envision 50 practical steps you can take to revive our economy, reclaim our environment, and renew our democracy.”
—Paul Begala, CNN Political Analyst
“Obama’s presidency has laid the foundation for enormous change, but change is not possible without the support of the American people. This book provides a blueprint to build a cleaner, healthier, and more economically just future for all.”
—Phaedra Ellis-Lamkins, CEO, Green For All
“I’ve witnessed the success of many of these strategies used by Huttner and Salzman in Colorado. Now they are sharing their wisdom with the entire country.”
—Congressman Jared Polis
“Obama’s election proved that Americans from all backgrounds can work together to defy the odds and make history. Huttner and Salzman show us how to capitalize on that first step toward reclaiming America.”
—Maria Teresa Kumar, Executive Director, Voto Latino