American Brain Coalition

The Dana Foundation supported a series of Congressional Neuroscience Caucus (CNC) briefings hosted by the American Brain Coalition (ABC), an nonprofit organization whose membership comprises brain health-related advocacy groups, patient organizations, and professional associations. The CNC is a bipartisan caucus—co-chaired by Republican and Democratic representatives—that seeks to raise awareness about neurological disorders and mental illnesses. These one-hour briefings are highly attended by members of Congress, congressional staffers, government agencies involved in neuroscience, as well as the larger community of patient advocacy groups, professional organizations, philanthropies, and industry partners. Topics have included neuroscience-related issues of interest to congressional constituents, such as social media and youth mental health, the importance of neuroethics, and the impact of BRAIN Initiative funding. These briefings help to reinforce the idea that neuroscience touches every aspect of our lives and raise awareness of the impact of federal investments in neuroscience research.