The MRF's Advocacy Days is an impactful three-day program that kicks off with a welcome reception, followed by issue briefings, and concludes with meetings on Capitol Hill.
Register now to connect with melanoma advocates and help drive meaningful change on the community's most important policy issues.
Register
The Melanoma Research Foundation (MRF) is pleased to provide a limited number of travel scholarships to volunteer advocates who demonstrate a need for financial assistance. If approved, awardees will receive up to $500 for reimbursement of economy transportation (airfare, train, mileage, tolls, etc.). Additionally, hotel accommodations will be provided by the MRF for the nights of March 1st and 2nd at the Kimpton Hotel Monaco Washington DC.
*Scholarship applications to attend the 2026 Advocacy Days have closed.
What are MRF Advocacy Days?
Each year, the MRF’s Advocacy Days brings together the melanoma community to advocate on Capitol Hill for increased federal research funding and policies that benefit melanoma patients and survivors.
When and where is the event?
Advocacy Days 2026 will take place in Washington, DC from March 1st to 3rd. Registered attendees will receive detailed locations and schedules for the Welcome Reception and Panel Day closer to the event via email.
What is the format of Advocacy Days?
Advocacy Days is a three-day program to provide advocates with an opportunity to connect in person and share experiences! To kick it off, Advocacy Days begins with a welcome reception for all advocates on Sunday evening. Monday is then a full day of panels followed by a cocktail reception in the evening. The program wraps up on Tuesday with all-day Hill visits to meet with lawmakers.
Is there a cost to register?
No. Registration is free of charge!
What is included with registration?
Registration includes a program book and lanyard, distributed at Monday’s check-in. The full agenda will be included in the program book.
Is Advocacy Days in-person only?
Yes!
Is there parking at the meeting venue (the Kimpton Monaco)?
Yes. There is parking at the Kimpton Monaco and several parking garages in the vicinity. You can view the Kimpton Monaco’s parking rates here.
Do I need to prepare policy materials?
No. The MRF will provide all the leave behinds, talking points and guidance in advance.
Do I need advocacy experience to participate?
No. No prior advocacy experience is required. MRF will provide training, talking points, and staff support throughout the event.
Will I meet with my Members of Congress?
Yes. MRF staff will schedule meetings with Congressional offices based on your home state or district. Meetings are typically held in small groups. Typically, our advocates meet with staff who work for the Member of Congress.
What will I be asked to talk about?
You will be guided to share your personal melanoma experience and support the MRF’s policy priorities. You will never be asked to speak without preparation.
Can caregivers or family members attend?
Yes. Caregivers and family members are always welcome and encouraged to participate.
What should I wear?
Business or business-casual attire is recommended. Comfortable shoes are strongly encouraged due to walking on Capitol Hill.
What is the role of researchers at Advocacy Days?
Researchers and clinicians help reinforce the importance of federal research funding, clinical trials and scientific innovation in melanoma care.
Will I attend my Hill meetings alone?
No. Meetings are coordinated by the MRF and typically include a mix of advocates, researchers and MRF staff.
Is there a MRF hotel room block?
The MRF room block at the Kimpton Monaco is reserved for MRF staff and limited scholarship awardees only. Attendees should contact the Kimpton Monaco directly to inquire about rates outside the MRF block or book at another nearby hotel. Early booking is strongly recommended due to high demand in Washington, DC. A list of hotels in close proximity to the Kimpton Monaco are: JW Marriott DC, Hotel Washington, Grand Hyatt DC, Motto by Hilton DC, the Westin DC Downtown
Are travel scholarships available?
Scholarship applications for the 2026 Advocacy Days closed on November 17, 2025.
Will there be security screening?
Yes. All Capitol Hill buildings require security screening and anything you wish to bring to Hill meetings will undergo a security check. During Advocacy Days, there will be a panel session on all the Know-Before-You-Gos ahead of Hill visits!
What if I can no longer attend after registering?
Please email advocacy@melanoma.org as soon as possible. Advanced notice is critical so the MRF can cancel or adjust scheduled Hill meetings.
Other good to know information?
The MRF will email you to confirm your attendance after registration. Please note that we cannot schedule Hill meetings for you until we are certain of your attendance. You will be contacted at the email you used to register for Advocacy Days.
Melanoma Research Foundation
CEO
Melanoma Research Foundation
Director of Public Policy & Advocacy
March 1 – 3, 2026
10:30 PM – 8:00 PM (UTC)
| 10:30 PM | Welcome Reception |
| 12:00 AM | End of Welcome Reception |
Melanoma Research Foundation
Director of Public Policy & Advocacy
Melanoma Research Foundation
Public Policy & Advocacy Coordinator
Contact Us
