Other Information / Q&A

Where and when is the event?

The CAI 2025 Congressional Advocacy Summit is being held on Thursday, November 6^th in Washington, D.C. 

What will I be doing?

This event is an opportunity to advocate on behalf of the community association housing model by holding face-to-face conversations with your legislators. The Congressional Advocacy Summit is split into 3 main events: a Breakfast Briefing in the morning, meetings with legislators throughout the afternoon, and a celebratory reception in the evening.

CAI will schedule 3 meetings for you, each about 20-30 minutes: one with your Representative, and one with each of your Senators to discuss the legislative priorities that affect your home and business. We will also ensure that you are prepared for these meetings and understand both the federal policy topics being discussed and your role in the meetings.

Will I meet with my members of Congress personally?

Advocates often meet with a legislator’s staff who are subject matter experts and influential in helping Congress members develop their positions. For CAI, this means that we may meet with staff who work on issues related to housing and have the exciting opportunity to discuss the community association housing model with them.

Members of Congress have very busy schedules. Between votes, committee hearings, and meetings with other constituents, their time is scheduled down to the minute every day. They may spend the whole meeting with you, two minutes, or not at all. We always request that the members of Congress be present at the meeting, but you may also

Do I make my own appointments?

No, the CAI staff will schedule meetings on your behalf! Make sure you register for the CAI Congressional Advocacy Summit with the address where you are registered to vote. CAI's Government and Public Affairs team will use this information to lookup your elected officials in our congressional database and  request appointments with them.

If you have a personal relationship with your Member of Congress and prefer to schedule the meeting, please let us know by emailing [email protected].  Otherwise, CAI will schedule your meetings and ensure you have everything you need to be a successful and impactful advocate. 

How do I register for CAI's 2025 Congressional Advocacy Summit?

Registration is now open. CAI members must register to attend the 2025 Advocacy Summit. Register TODAY! This event is free for CAI members.

Is it ok to discuss topics other than the identified "asks"?

While a personal anecdote that supports our legislative “asks" can be powerful and impactful, it is important to stick to the talking points or “asks" and not use the time as a platform to bring in other issues during the meetings facilitated at the Congressional Advocacy Summit. This is because members of Congress are very busy and may need to leave meetings early, so it’s important to ensure your message is delivered effectively and that CAI members are seen as knowledgeable and useful resources on policy issues. Advocates must also respect each elected official’s time and potential differences in politics/backgrounds.

Which forms of ID will I need to travel to Washington, D.C.?

Beginning May 7, 2025, if you plan to use your state-issued ID or license to fly domestically, it must be REAL ID compliant. If you are not sure if your ID complies with REAL ID, check with your state department of motor vehicles.

What is security like at the U.S. Capitol Building?

While you are not required to show an I.D. to enter the U.S. Capitol, an I.D. may be required to enter other federal buildings. This requirement could be subject to change. CAI will keep you updated on any developments.

All carried items will be inspected upon entering the Capitol Visitor Center. Outside food and beverages (including bottled water) are not allowed in the building. View the complete list of prohibited items in the Capitol.

Can this event be used for credit with CAI?

Attendees can use the 2025 Congressional Advocacy Summit for credit in two ways:

1.    AMS Redesignation – It qualifies under “Other Industry-Related Programs” and can count toward the eight-hour requirement.

2.    PCAM Credential – It applies under Section II: CAI and Industry-Related Education Programs.

How should I prepare for the event?

CAI has a plethora of resources. Check out the following assets to get started:

• Advocacy Guide for Telephone Calls, Email, and Social Media handout (1 page)  
• Advocate's Guide to Written and Oral Testimony handout (1 page) 
• Advocate's Guide to Personal Visits with Legislators handout (2 pages)
• CAI Federal Legislative & Regulatory Priorities for 2025
• Know Before You Go: CAI Advocacy Day in Your State Capitol

Registration for the 2025 Congressional Advocacy Summit is complimentary for a limited time! Register TODAY!