Advocacy
Things to Consider:
According to Merriam-Webster Dictionary, “Advocacy is the act of publicly supporting, arguing for, or pleading on behalf of a specific cause, idea, policy, or person. It aims to influence decision-makers, shift public opinion, and bring about social, legal, or institutional change.”
“Be the change you wish to see in the world.” On your journey, you will without a doubt have to advocate for yourself and/or others. It may feel overwhelming or scary at first, but your voice matters. Your story matters. So don’t be afraid to stand up for change!
The organizations below do great things for our community. Consider joining their network to stay informed on action alerts and legislative issues.
Advocacy Organizations
All of these incredible organizations earn this title for their amazing advocacy work!
Arc of Arizona
Services: The Arc of Arizona advocates for the rights and full community participation of all people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Together with our network of members and affiliated chapters, we improve systems of supports and services, connect families, inspire communication and influence public policy.
Includes the Disability Advocacy & Police Alliance (DAPA) and the Arizona Sexual Violence & Disability Network.
Contact information
Website: https://arcarizona.org
Arizona Autism Coalition
Services: The Arizona Autism Coalition improves the lives of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder and their families in Arizona by sharing resources and affecting autism systems reform through state-wide collaboration and advocacy. Hosts of Day of Learning Events and an annual Autism Expo Resource Fair.
Contact information
Website: https://www.azautism.org
Arizona Developmental Disabilities Planning Council
Services: The Arizona Developmental Disabilities Planning Council promotes greater community inclusion across the lifespan for all Arizonans with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The Council achieves this through grantmaking, advocacy, research and innovative projects in five key goal areas: self-determination, meaningful careers, inclusion, system access, and safety. A staff of six assists the all-volunteer Council, which is made up of individuals with disabilities, family members, professionals in the disability field, and state agency representatives appointed by the Governor of Arizona.
Contact information
Website: https://addpc.az.gov
Arizona Disability Advocacy Coalition
Services: We are a coalition of Arizona individuals and non-profits dedicated to ensuring equal access and dignity of individuals with disabilities. Our mission is to advance the rights, choices, and values of people with disabilities through our individual and collective advocacy and education efforts.
Contact information
Website: https://azdac.org
Arizona Youth Leadership Forum
Services: AZYLF empowers youth and young adults who have disabilities through a dynamic and inclusive conference experience. Participants build leadership skills, explore the disability experience, set goals, learn about community resources, and practice self-advocacy in a supportive environment alongside their peers. Available to Arizona students ages 14–22 who have a documented disability.
Contact information
Website: https://diverseabilityincorporated.org/arizona-youth-leadership-forum-azylf
EPIC DisabilityAdvocacy
Services: EPIC Disability Advocacy is a 501(c)(3), public, charitable corporation. The principal charitable objective of the organization is the improvement of the lives of disabled individuals and to be the catalyst that empowers the disability community, and removes barriers that create social change through advocacy, education, and collaboration.
Also offers EmpowerU®, a 12-month journey that empowers neurodiverse individuals to navigate life confidently through the development of Self-Determination and Self-Advocacy skills. The program fosters participants’ self-awareness, leading to growth in independence, confidence, and leadership skills.
Contact information
Website: https://epicdisability.org
Raising Voices Coalition
Services: Raising Voices Coalition is a caregiver-led nonprofit organization driving disability policy change in Arizona and beyond. We empower individuals, families, and provider allies to speak up, take action, and influence systems that impact the lives of people with disabilities every day.
Also offers Partners in Leadership, a free leadership and advocacy training program for young adults with disabilities, parents, and guardians who want to influence systems, shape policy, and strengthen disability advocacy across Arizona.
Contact information
Website: https://www.raisingvoicescoalition.com
Many times these organization will ask that you contact your legislators. You can find out what district you reside in and who to contact on the Arizona State Legislature’s website. Click here to learn more.