Get Involved with The NLN Community
Become a Volunteer with the NLN
“The National Lymphedema Network thrives because of the passion, dedication, and generosity of volunteers. Whether you want to contribute individually, join a committee or project team, serve as an educator, support events, share your story, or lend your skills in another meaningful way, there’s a place for you here.
Volunteers play a vital role in advancing lymphedema awareness, strengthening education, and supporting the community we serve. Your time, expertise, and lived experience help move our mission forward and expand the reach of our programs.
We’re excited to learn how you would like to get involved and make an impact.”
Find your place in the mission - volunteer in a way that’s meaningful to you.
Whether you’re sharing your story, supporting clinician education, joining a committee, or contributing to a specific project, choosing how you get involved helps direct your energy where it matters most. The NLN relies on volunteers to carry out our mission—and we’re excited to hear how you’d like to make a difference.
NLN Volunteer Team Member
Join the NLN team by supporting behind-the-scenes tasks that help our programs run smoothly. Volunteer Team Members assist with administrative duties, project coordination, and general organizational support—playing a key role in advancing our mission from the inside out. This flexible role is perfect for those who enjoy contributing across multiple areas and working collaboratively with the NLN staff.
Share Your Story
Your experience matters – and it may be just what someone else needs to hear. If you’re living with lymphedema, we invite you to share your personal story to help others feel seen, supported, and less alone. Submissions (400–800 words) may be featured on our social media and/or newsletters. Consider including what you have learned, what you wish others knew, and a few photos if you would like.
NLN Committee Volunteer
Join one of the NLN’s dedicated committees, such as Research, Editorial, Fundraising, or the Garment Program, and help shape the future of lymphatic care and education. Committee members collaborate with peers and professionals to advance projects, contribute expertise, and support the NLN’s mission through focused, team-based efforts.
Medical Advisory Committee Volunteer
Open to healthcare professionals only, this role invites you to contribute your clinical expertise to help shape the future of lymphatic care. Medical Advisory Committee volunteers collaborate with fellow experts to update existing Position Papers and develop new ones—ensuring that NLN guidance reflects the latest research, best practices, and patient needs. This opportunity is ideal for those passionate about advancing evidence-informed care and supporting the NLN’s mission through thought leadership.
NLN Educator
Share your expertise and help shape NLN’s educational offerings. We welcome clinicians, researchers, and thought leaders to contribute to upcoming webinars, workshops, and learning resources. Educators may submit abstracts, present on mission-aligned topics, or collaborate on innovative programming that advances lymphatic care. If you’re passionate about teaching and translating knowledge into impact, we’d love to hear from you.
NLN Clinical Focus Group Facilitator
Lead virtual peer discussions that strengthen clinical insight, collaboration, and community within lymphatic care. Facilitators help guide conversations around specialized topics, such as lymphatic surgery, compression, private practice, or patient support, creating supportive spaces for clinicians to share challenges, strategies, and best practices. This role is ideal for those who enjoy fostering connection and advancing professional growth. Learn more about the NLN Clinical Focus Groups here.
Patient Support Team
This opportunity is open exclusively to Certified Lymphedema Therapists (CLTs). As a Patient Support Team volunteer, you will respond to patient outreach via phone and email with empathy and guidance, offering resource recommendations and support while upholding NLN’s non-clinical boundaries. Volunteers commit to 2–3 hours per month and may receive up to 5 calls monthly. Additional responsibilities include participating in the NLN Patient Committee, becoming familiar with NLN programs, and adhering to NLN policies. This role is ideal for CLTs who want to make a meaningful impact through compassionate connection and patient-centered education.
NLN Conference Navigator
This member-only opportunity is open to all levels of NLN membership. As a Conference Navigator, you’ll assist with daily tasks at NLN’s in-person events—such as check-in scanning, exhibit hall monitoring, stage seating, and faculty support. In exchange, Navigators receive a reduced registration rate of $200, an exclusive invitation to the Faculty Dinner, and an NLN vest to wear during the event. It’s a great way to contribute, connect, and experience the conference from the inside out.
This program is one of many ways the NLN supports clinicians throughout their careers. Membership also includes access to:
As an NLN Conference
Navigator, you:
- will not miss any portion of the in-person event
- will participate in virtual meetings and trainings prior to the event
- must be ready to assist starting at 7:00 am on the first day of the event
- must be willing to help with setup
- must be confident with strict attendance monitoring
- must be willing to assist during exhibit hall hours
- must be able to communicate and be responsive via text
- must have strong situational adaptability
- must have strong conflict management
- will be responsible for your own hotel and travel fees
- must be willing to roll up sleeves and assist to make the conference successful
Instructions for Completing the Navigator Application
1. Record a 1-minute video explaining why you would like to be an NLN Conference Navigator. Please include what qualities and characteristics would make you a great addition to the team.
2. Complete the application below and upload your video.
We will review your application and contact you via email if you are accepted into the program.
Support the NLN Start Strong Program
Access to compression garments can make a profound difference in a patient’s health, comfort, and quality of life. Your donation helps ensure that individuals living with lymphedema can receive the garments they need when financial hardship would otherwise stand in the way.
Every contribution directly supports patients and strengthens this important program for the future.