Each year over 30,000 people in the U.S. are diagnosed with juvenile diabetes, of whom 13,000 are children. In our democracy, we know that one can make a difference; your calls, letters, and visits to elected representatives can transform the future, and work to move us closer to a cure for juvenile diabetes. The U.S. government is the world's largest funder of biomedical research - billions of dollars are allocated every year to its primary research establishment, the National Institutes of Health. Elevating diabetes research to the top of the federal government's agenda - and keeping it there until a cure is found - is JDRF's primary advocacy goal. JDRF advocates have successfully increased awareness of juvenile diabetes and its complications among Members of Congress, Administration officials, and the American public, leading to historic increases for diabetes research funding.

 The real key to the success of JDRF's advocacy lies in the strength of our grassroots network. JDRF advocates are organized in regions, districts, and chapters. They are supported through special training and continual information. Together, they work in their home districts to establish good working relationships with their elected representatives so that each representative becomes a champion of increased funding for diabetes research. Grassroots work is coordinated by JDRF Washington staff, who develop strategy, together with their JDRF volunteer partners, keep the advocacy network informed, and stay close to policy makers on th Hill, in the Administration, and on the NIH campus. Advocacy for a cure matters. When we work together, our elected officials listen and we make a difference.

For more information, please contact the Austin JDRF office at (512) 343-0663 or email us at info@jdrfaustin.org.