Advocacy
VABDF Advocates for Our Community
Advocacy Opportunities
Advocacy is central to the mission of the Virginia Bleeding Disorders Foundation (VABDF). Through ongoing outreach and education efforts, VABDF works to inform elected officials and key stakeholders about hemophilia and other inherited bleeding disorders.
Each year, VABDF partners with the Hemophilia Association of the Capital Area (HACA) to host several advocacy initiatives, including a fall Advocacy Stakeholder and Education Meeting, as well as virtual Advocacy Trainings and an in-person Richmond Days during the Virginia General Assembly session each winter. These events bring together constituents from across the commonwealth for advocacy, education, and meetings with state legislators to share personal experiences and raise awareness about issues impacting the bleeding disorders community.
VABDF also participates in the National Bleeding Disorders Foundation’s annual Washington Days advocacy event by providing travel grants each year for several constituents to attend. This national gathering is held each March during Bleeding Disorders Awareness Month and gives individuals and families affected by inherited bleeding disorders the opportunity to advocate alongside hundreds of volunteer advocates from across the United States.
Participants meet with legislators and congressional staff to discuss priorities such as federal funding for bleeding disorders programs, improving the affordability of healthcare coverage, and protecting access to quality care and treatment.
Advocacy happens every day, and there are many ways to participate in advocacy activities throughout the year, including:
- Writing letters to your elected officials regarding proposed changes to law or regulations
- Join our statewide Advocacy Committee in partnership with the Hemophilia Association of the Capital Area (HACA)
- Meeting with other state decision-makers, including state departments of insurance and Medicaid agencies
- Educating health plans about the needs of the bleeding disorders community
- Educating schools and employers about the needs of the bleeding disorders community
- Advocating to your health care provider about your unique health care needs
To learn more about getting involved with advocacy email info@vabdf.org or call 804-740-8643.
You and your stories can help us make a difference!
If you’re new at advocacy, start with our Advocacy FAQs. This handout answers questions about what you need to know to become an advocate and how to contact your legislators.
For essential information on the Virginia General Assembly and how to talk with your legislators, visit Citizens guide to the General Assembly, created by Virginia Public Access Project. This website is a comprehensive guide that explains what to do before, during, and after your visit with your legislator.
If you are seeking information on advocacy at the state level, visit the following websites:
If you are seeking information on advocacy at the federal level, visit the following websites:
- National Bleeding Disorders Foundation (NBDF) Advocacy Homepage
- Find your representative in the U.S. House of Representatives
- Find your U.S. Senators
Congress.gov is the official website for US federal legislative information.
How We Support the Bleeding Disorders Community
VABDF’s services and programs are designed to support individuals and families at every stage of life, from newly diagnosed children to adults navigating healthcare and everyday life with a bleeding disorder. Learn more about what we offer →
Advocacy
Advocacy is a cornerstone of VABDFs mission. The organization works to ensure individuals living with bleeding disorders have access to comprehensive and affordable healthcare.
Support Us
- Make a donation.
- Make your donation a recurring gift, no amount is too small! When you donate, check the box that says “make my donation recurring.” Monthly donors join our Hope Society, helping secure VABDF’s future and bring hope to people living with inherited bleeding disorders.
- Spread Awareness by following and engaging with our social media channels or go here to start your own Facebook Fundraiser to benefit VABDF.
- Sponsor an event, email info@vabdf.org for more information.
- Join our email newsletter.