Empowering young leaders across California to advocate for children affected by childhood cancer at the State Capitol
A transformative initiative empowering high school students to become champions for children battling childhood cancer
This groundbreaking youth-led pediatric cancer advocacy initiative serves students across California.
This project will prepare and support select high school students to participate meaningfully in the inaugural California Pediatric Cancer Advocacy & Awareness Day, where they will engage directly with policymakers, clinicians, and advocates on behalf of children affected by childhood cancer such as DIPG
Through comprehensive advocacy training toolkits and direct travel support, students will gain essential skills in:
Learn how bills become laws and navigate California's legislative system
Master the art of conveying complex medical issues to decision-makers
Represent voices of children and families impacted by rare diseases
Our initiative is designed to create tangible, lasting impact for students and the broader community
Support participation of select student leaders from across California through comprehensive travel and logistical assistance for Advocacy Day
Train participating students using advocacy toolkits prior to the event to ensure readiness for legislative meetings
Facilitate student participation in meetings with state legislators, staff, and policy leaders during Advocacy Day
Increase student confidence and understanding of civic engagement through pre- and post-event reflections and surveys
Ensure youth voices from across California are represented in statewide pediatric cancer advocacy efforts
Foster long-term community engagement and civic responsibility among participating students and their schools
This initiative creates ripple effects across the state
Select student leaders from high schools across California gain hands-on experience in advocacy, policy literacy, and public leadership through direct participation in statewide events.
By focusing on childhood cancer, we shine a light on critical health issues that affect children and families across California.
Elevating student advocates as visible leaders in pediatric cancer advocacy reinforces California's role in shaping compassionate, informed health policy at the state level.
The experience fosters civic responsibility, leadership development, and long-term community engagement among participating students that extends far beyond Advocacy Day.
September is nationally recognized as Childhood Cancer Awareness Month — and we are asking California legislators to make it official.
Amgen
EveryLife Foundation
The Neev Kolte Foundation
Unravel Pediatric Cancer
Joey Wings
Mithil Prasad Foundation
Detailed schedule to be announced. A full day of learning, engagement, and meaningful advocacy awaits.
Proposed Program Agenda (Tentative)
provided in accordance with Capitol guidelines and in-house food service requirements
(Note: Participants will have completed prior virtual advocacy training sessions via Zoom.)
Be part of this historic initiative to give young people a voice in pediatric cancer policy
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Apply early to secure your spot!
