The NDPC is a national Homeland Security preparedness training consortium for first responders throughout the country. The organization meets quarterly in order to re-group and discuss training needs as they constantly change. “The NDPC meetings allow us as training providers to discuss and listen to issues that are going on throughout the country with today’s first responders,” Lonnie Lawson, President and CEO of The Center for Rural Development said. “We are able to hear issues from various training providers, as well as state, federal, and local representatives.” On this trip, the group was able to learn how Churchill Downs prepares and protects all of the racetrack patrons leading up to and during the Kentucky Derby.