New York is often considered the premier American city, and with more than 22 million people in the metropolitan area, it’s easy to understand why. The hugely diverse population in this relatively small mecca creates a unique culture. At the same time, the number of people living in such tight quarters can make it hard to stay on top of social issues.
To help city constituents remain aware of the top political issues that need to be addressed in New York, the NYC Card Project – a bipartisan nonprofit organization – is mailing more than 50,000 New Yorkers cards of easy-to-reference social issues. The cards are being sent to New Yorkers who donate the most to political campaigns.
A recent luncheon for the organization featured a dialogue between former Republican National Committee chairman Ken Mehlman and former president Clinton’s Chief of Staff, John Podesta. The party leaders met common ground on the importance of keeping NYC constituents informed about leading social issues.
Mayor Bloomberg recently spoke about the value of the organization, as well. Bloomberg explained the nonprofit’s outreach as a form of social responsibility to political donors. "The average New Yorker gives two and a half times more money to federal candidates than other Americans – and yet, too often, candidates take the money and run," he said.
With the credit-card sized references, political contributors can be empowered with knowledge to stand up for what the city needs. The NYC Card Project has listed education, financial reform, illegal guns, immigration and 9/11 health solutions as this year’s top political priorities. The cards come with suggestions for constituents to encourage political leaders to act on these issues.
The cards – and the nonprofit – have already won a number of supporters in the New York business community, including Ken Mehlman of Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co, Donald Marron of Lightyear Capitol and Joshua Steiner of the Quadrangle Group.
Hopefully, the reference tools will soon win social reform for the broader NYC community.