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advocacy Federal Lobby Day 2007 gives volunteers a chance to impact federal policy As an experienced volunteer for the American Cancer Society, Ginger Darwin has visited Washington, D.C. on several different occasions during the last five years. But each trip always has the same goal—to make sure that cancer issues remain a priority with her federal lawmakers from Indiana. Next month, she’ll make the trek again for the Society’s annual Federal Lobby Day. 
"It’s a wonderful, awesome, and humbling experience. I feel like we can get the ear of our legislators and make a difference," said Ginger. With the new advocacy structure, this year’s event will be a little different. Ginger will join 435 ACT! Leads for a training and to participate in Federal Lobby Day. For the first time, the ACT! Leads are responsible for managing the relationship with their Member of Congress. "Generally, we’ll go into some trainings on the issues that we’re going to talk to our elected officials about. For example, it could be increased funding for cancer screening, or research or something else," explained Ginger. "I’m always happy when we can get research on the agenda." As a four-time cancer survivor, Ginger personally knows how important it is to maintain support and funding for cancer research. "I had bone marrow transplants back when the procedure was experimental. In my case, lymphoma research helped." As someone who has attended several Federal Lobby Days, Ginger believes it is a great opportunity to educate legislators. "It’s important to go and let them know that we’re watching how they vote. We have to keep cancer funding a priority," said Ginger. "It’s great to feel like you’re having an impact. We sit here (in Indiana) and they are out there. But it makes you feel like you can make a difference. Lobby Day really does de-mystify the whole legislative process."
To get involved in advocacy efforts, call 1-800-ACS-2345 or visit online at www.acscan.org/indiana and www.acscan.org/michigan. | |
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