TUCSON, AZ—Today, the Congressional Management Foundation announced Rep. Raúl M. Grijalva as a finalist for the inaugural Democracy Award in the category of constituent services. The award recognizes his outstanding work in serving the constituents of Arizona’s Third Congressional District by assisting them in their requests to federal agencies.
“I am honored to receive this recognition for our constituent services,” said Rep. Raúl M. Grijalva. “It is my responsibility to serve the people of Arizona’s Third Congressional District not only through making laws, but by helping them navigate the complicated system of federal agencies to solve important issues directly impacting their lives. However, I couldn’t have done this without the tireless dedication of my staff who advocate for our constituents as if they were members of their own family. Thanks to their dedication, we have helped thousands of people keep their homes, reunite with their families, and receive the benefits they are entitled to. I’m proud that the people of my district know that they have a dedicated public servant who is fighting for them in Washington and at home.”
More than 15,371 families and individuals have received assistance from constituent services since 2003. In FY2017, Rep. Grijalva’s office assisted in 17 foreclosure postponements and modifications, saving constituents over $2 million.
In announcing Rep. Grijalva as a finalist for the Democracy Awards, CMF explained why the office was selected:
“Representative Raul Grijalva (D-AZ-03) and his office are so well-known for their excellent constituent service that they are sought out by both Democrat and Republican offices for training, and federal agencies invite them to speak on panels about how to be a successful advocates for constituents. They scrupulously track the services they are providing by issue, by agency, and by the amount of money recovered for their constituents. The office’s handbook gives staff step-by-step instructions on how to handle constituent inquiries with intake forms targeted to the specific need. They hold each other accountable during weekly all-staff meetings where the Washington and Arizona offices discuss their efforts to assist the district.”
Rep. Grijalva was one of three Democrats and three Republicans chosen for the honor. CMF will choose the final award winner in May.