FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:Â Â Â Â October 20, 2009
 Washington, DC: The Hemophilia Federation of America (HFA) held its first Advocacy Intensive weekend October 2 – 5, 2009. The program is a best practice model for bringing HFA social advocacy programs full circle and encouraging members of the bleeding disorders community to reach their full potential through role modeling and self advocacy.
 “It was a wonderful group to work with. The participants were eager to learn and we applaud their determination and enthusiasm to become dedicated community advocates,” states Kisa Carter, HFA’s Public Policy Director.Â
 All participants expressed appreciation for the opportunity to become stronger advocates for the bleeding disorders community. One participant stated, “The name ‘Intensive’ is clearly appropriate. From start to finish, the weekend was incredibly planned and full of useful information and experiences.” Feedback from another participant commends the HFA for an invitation to “a valuable learning tool in advancing [my] abilities as a community advocate.”Â
 The program is delivered during an intense three to five days of experiential learning where participants engage in a variety of hands-on activities including team building and communication exercises, special projects and training on the legislative process. The participants also authored their own “Personal Story” and delivered it to legislators on Capitol Hill.      Â
                                                       ##END##
The Hemophilia Federation of America is a national 501(c)(3) organization consisting of 30 member organizations and numerous individual members who offer assistance and grassroots advocacy on behalf of the bleeding disorders community.  Incorporated in 1994, the HFA provides programs and services to improve the quality of life for persons with hemophilia and von Willebrand disease (VWD).
For more information, visit our website at www.hemophiliafed.org or call 1-800-230-9797.
 HFA CONTACT: Susan Swindle, Development Director |713-203-8548| s.swindle@hemophiliafed.org
