Apply to be a part of IAVA's Cavalry

IAVA’s Cavalry is our premier leadership development program. What began as a handful of veterans walking the halls of Congress has evolved into a professional program that prepares post-9/11 veterans to become effective advocates and leaders.

Those selected as Cavalry Members have the opportunity to grow professionally while engaging directly with policymakers and the media. Drawing on their lived experiences and expertise, Cavalry Members elevate the issues that matter most to post-9/11 veterans and their communities. When IAVA calls in the Cavalry, our nation’s leaders listen and veteran voices help drive meaningful change.

In past years, Cavalry Members have worked alongside IAVA staff to engage more than 100 congressional offices and key Executive Branch leaders, including the White House. Together, these efforts have helped advance issues important to post-9/11 veterans, their families, and communities across the country.

Service never stops; join the fight!

BEFORE YOU APPLY

Cavalry is more than a trip to Washington. It is a leadership and advocacy development program designed to prepare veterans to effectively engage policymakers, the media, and their communities.

October 31, 2026 | Applications Close
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. To be considered for the 2027 Cavalry cohort, your application must be received by **4:00 PM ET on October 31, 2026.**

January 2027 | Orientation & IAVA Foundations
Meet your fellow Cavalry Members, learn about IAVA’s mission and policy priorities, and build the foundation for the training ahead.

February 2027 | Advocacy Training
Participate in virtual training focused on the policymaking process, effective advocacy, communicating your lived experience, engaging policymakers, and preparing for meetings in Washington.

March 2027 (First Week) | Cavalry Week — Washington, DC
Put your training into practice alongside IAVA staff and fellow Cavalry Members through policy briefings, practical exercises, meetings with congressional offices and other national leaders, and engagement with IAVA partners and the broader veteran community.

Beyond Washington | Lead in Your Community
Cavalry Week is not the end of the program’s impact. Members leave Washington equipped to continue advocating for veterans and their communities. IAVA provides ongoing opportunities for Cavalry Members to engage on key issues, participate in advocacy efforts, and strengthen veteran leadership across the country.

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