Becoming a Volunteer
This September, the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF) celebrates a historic milestone: our 50th Anniversary. We invite you to be part of this legacy by volunteering for the 55th Annual Legislative Conference at the Washington Convention Center from September 16–20, 2026. As the nation’s leading public policy convening, ALC is where big ideas meet bold action. This year, we expect thousands of attendees from across the globe to join us in tackling the most pressing challenges facing Black communities worldwide. As a volunteer, you are the backbone of this dynamic space—providing the essential coordination that drives our success behind the scenes.
Key Details:
- Conference Dates: Wednesday, Sept. 16 – Sunday, Sept. 20
- Volunteer Prep Begins: Monday, Sept. 14 (Early assistance needed)
- Location: Walter E. Washington Convention Center, Washington, D.C.
By joining our team, you will expand your professional network, share your unique skills, and contribute directly to the economic and social advancement of the global Black community. Be part of the movement that defines our future.
Why volunteer?
Make an Impact: Your contribution will directly support the success of the event dedicated to driving positive change.
Network and Learn: Connect with like-minded individuals, hear from inspiring speakers and gain valuable insights into the legislative processes and advocacy.
Build Skills: Develop teamwork, communication, and leadership skills in a dynamic and fast-paced environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
I. Registration & Process
Our online application is officially open! Click here to apply.
The online registration portal will close on August 1, 2026.
Yes, all volunteers must be at least 18 years of age.
II. Schedule & Commitment
The 55th Annual Legislative Conference takes place from Wednesday, September 16, through Sunday, September 20, 2026. Volunteer engagement begins as early as Monday, September 14, and concludes Sunday, September 20.
Volunteers are expected to fulfill the entire duration of their scheduled shift. Please plan to arrive at the Volunteer Office 30 minutes prior to your start time for check-in and briefing.
Yes! You may select assignments that align with your interests and availability.
Note: If you do not check in at least 30 minutes before your shift, your assignment may be reassigned to a standby volunteer.
Absolutely. You may register for as many shifts as your schedule permits, provided they do not overlap. The system will automatically prevent you from booking overlapping opportunities.
III. Roles & Responsibilities
We offer a wide range of roles to suit various skill sets, including:
- Guest Experience: Greeter, Information Booth, Wayfinding, Registration.
- Operations: Access Control, Transportation, Floater, Volunteer Office Support.
- Programming: Room Monitoring, Session Scanning, Speaker Ready Room.
- Media & Tech: Social Media Support, Marketing, Event Production.
IV. Travel & Logistics
Please plan your travel to accommodate our mandatory orientations:
- Bag Stuffing & Orientation: Sunday, September 13 at 1:00 PM.
- Supplemental Orientations: Monday, Sept. 14 and Tuesday, Sept. 15 (as needed).
- Location: 801 Allen Y. Lew Place NW, Washington, DC 20001.
Volunteers are responsible for their own travel and lodging arrangements (if applicable). The CBCF will reimburse for travel if you are scheduled for any evening events.
CBCF will provide lunch and light snacks for volunteers in the Volunteer Office from Wednesday through Saturday.
CBCF will provide official volunteer T-shirts to be worn during your shifts. Please pair your shirt with black or dark-colored slacks/skirts and comfortable dark shoes. Given the size of the Convention Center, expect to walk significant distances.
V. Conference Access
Volunteer status does not grant complimentary access to conference sessions or ticketed activities. Your access is restricted to the areas required by your specific assignment. If you wish to attend events as a guest, you must register separately at your own expense.
VI. Contact Information
If your question was not addressed here, please reach out to our team at cbcfhumanresources@cbcfinc.org.
Testimonials
Kavika Belgrave
How many years have you been a volunteer at the CBCF?
- 19 years
What first inspired you to volunteer with the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation?
- Seeing the Congressional Black Caucus fight so fearlessly for the African American community is a testament to their dedication. By breaking down barriers to the ‘American Dream’ and advocating for equal rights, CBC legislators continue to lead the charge for social and economic advancement for all Black Americans.
What was the most rewarding moment you experienced at the Annual Legislative Conference?
- I have had many rewarding experiences at the CBCF, but none compared to the hour I spent with Congressman John Lewis. Driving him from the airport to the Convention Center, I had the rare opportunity to speak one-on-one with a man who didn’t just witness the Civil Rights Movement—he lived it. Hearing his firsthand accounts was absolutely fascinating and profoundly informative. He had such a beautiful soul, and I still carry the lessons from that conversation with me to this day.
Natosha Gailes
How many years have you been a volunteer at the CBCF?
- I have been a volunteer with the CBCF for 4 consecutive years (2022-2026).
What first inspired you to volunteer with the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation?
- After attending the Annual Legislative Conference, I was truly in awe of both the scale of the event and the depth of the conversations taking place. It wasn’t just inspiring, it felt personal. As a Social Worker, I’ve spent years working directly with individuals and communities impacted by systemic inequities, so witnessing those same issues being addressed at a policy and leadership level was incredibly powerful. Volunteering with the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation felt like a natural extension of my work, an opportunity to contribute my experience while supporting efforts that uplift communities and drive meaningful, lasting impact.
What was the most rewarding moment you experienced at the Annual Legislative Conference?
- The highlight of my time at ALC was hearing Vice President Kamala Harris speak at the Phoenix Awards Dinner. This event is more than just a gala; it is a profound celebration of the dedication shown by the entire CBCF team and the volunteers. After days of hard work behind the scenes, seeing the impact of our efforts culminate in such a historic and inspiring evening is a reward unlike any other.
Antonette Jerrick
How many years have you been a volunteer at the CBCF?
- 2 fantastic years
What first inspired you to volunteer with the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation?
- I am deeply inspired by the opportunity to uphold the legacy of those who paved the way at CBCF. Giving my time to this mission is about more than just a conference; it’s about ensuring a brighter path for our youth. They are the leaders of tomorrow, and I am committed to supporting their journey through my service.
What was the most rewarding moment you experienced at the Annual Legislative Conference?
- From a volunteer perspective, it has been rewarding to witness the strategic improvements in the processes and execution year over year. The commitment to refining the operations ensures a more seamless experience for both the volunteer and the thousands of attendees.
Eric McGlothen
How many years have you been a volunteer at the CBCF?
- I have volunteered with the CBCF Annual Legislative Conference for four consecutive years, from 2022 to 2025.
What first inspired you to volunteer with the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation?
- The support I received from the Foundation during my internship inspired me to continue my journey as a volunteer. I am especially grateful to Ms. Candice and Ms. Michelle for their mentorship and for trusting me to serve each year. It is incredibly rewarding to know that I play a role in ensuring our attendees have a seamless and impactful experience at the conference.
What was the most rewarding moment you experienced at the Annual Legislative Conference?
- My most rewarding experience took place during the 2023 ALC, where a chance connection with a University of Maryland professor changed my career trajectory. After discussing my interest in the U.S. Coast Guard, his encouragement—rooted in his own service—inspired me to begin the enlistment process. By the following year’s conference, I had officially enlisted and gained an invaluable mentor in fellow volunteer, Shanna Guilliano. Every year, the CBCF provides these unique, life-changing opportunities that continue to fuel both my personal and professional growth.
Brenda-Lea Morrison
How many years have you been a volunteer at the CBCF?
- 2 years
What first inspired you to volunteer with the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation?
- The 2024 election served as a powerful reminder of the importance of staying informed and involved. Seeking a meaningful way to support communities across the country, I felt drawn to the CBCF Annual Legislative Conference. It is the perfect environment to lend my skills and resources, and I am proud to serve as a volunteer in a space where big ideas meet bold, collective action.
What was the most rewarding moment you experienced at the Annual Legislative Conference?
- Connecting with a diverse network of mission-driven people from across the country.
Aron Petros
How many years have you been a volunteer at the CBCF?
- I have volunteered with the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation for the past two years.
What first inspired you to volunteer with the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation?
- I was drawn to CBCF’s work at the intersection of law, policy, and community empowerment. The Annual Legislative Conference is the nation’s leading public policy convening focused on issues impacting African Americans, and I wanted to be part of supporting that. I also saw an opportunity to learn from staff, engage with thought leaders, and grow professionally.
What was the most rewarding moment you experienced at the Annual Legislative Conference?
- Helping attendees find sessions that matched their interests has been one of the most rewarding parts of volunteering at the Annual Legislative Conference. Whether it was pointing a student toward a career development panel or connecting an advocate with a relevant policy session, those interactions made the experience fulfilling.