Capitol Hill

Visit Your Members of Congress During the AUCD Conference!

You are strongly encouraged to visit your Members of Congress while in Washington, DC, for the AUCD 2026 Conference. These meetings are an opportunity to share the work your Center does and explain why it matters to people with disabilities in your state and nationwide. By sharing your research, education, training, and services, you can help policymakers better understand the impact of the AUCD Network and build relationships with potential congressional champions on disability issues.

Schedule your meetings before arriving in Washington. If you have not already done so, contact your Senators and Representatives as soon as possible, ideally at least one week in advance.

Attend the Pre Conference Policy Workshop
Sunday, November 8, 2026 | 4:15–5:30 p.m.
Potomac 1/2, Ballroom Level

Join us for an interactive Public Policy Workshop designed to help attendees advocate effectively and prepare for Hill visits. A panel of Capitol Hill staff will offer an inside perspective on legislative priorities and the legislative process. Participants will discuss the importance of educating and advocating with policymakers and take part in a practical workshop to prepare for meetings with their Members of Congress.

How to Schedule Your Visits

1. Find your Members of Congress. Call the Capitol switchboard at 202-224-3121 and ask to be connected to your Senator or Representative, or visit the AUCD Action Center and enter your ZIP code to find their contact information.

2. Ask for the appropriate staff member. Request to speak with the staff person who handles health or disability issues.

3. Request an appointment. Ask to meet on Sunday, November 8, early in the afternoon, to provide an update on your Center’s research, education, training, and services. If that time is unavailable, ask about other options that fit your conference schedule.

4. Plan your schedule. Schedule Senate and House visits together when possible, and allow at least 30 minutes to walk between the two sides of the Capitol. We suggest scheduling meetings in 30-minute increments.

5. Prepare your materials. Use the sample talking points provided or develop your own. Bring research briefs, relevant data, and stories from people and families connected to your work. Connect these examples to your policy priorities.

Please  share feedback about your visits. AUCD will provide feedback forms to help you report on your meetings and experiences.

Thank you for taking the time to meet with your Members of Congress or their staff. These conversations help policymakers understand the work of the AUCD Network and inform decisions about congressional support for our programs and activities.

Resources

• Advocacy Guides and Resources
• Map of Capitol Hill