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Advocacy Resources


 

The STRIDE Center Advocacy Resources page offers helpful tools and information to support individuals with disabilities and their families in standing up for their rights and getting essential services. This page includes resources that explain self-advocacy, important disability laws, how to connect with local organizations that can help, and provide guidance. By using these resources, individuals, families, and community members can learn how to become better advocates, connect with others, and work toward greater inclusion and equality across Michigan.

 


Disability-Specific

The Autism Alliance of Michigan (AAoM) is a statewide organization that helps autistic individuals and their families. They offer resources and support to make it easier for families to find the services they need in schools, healthcare, and jobs. AAoM advocates for people with autism by raising awareness, promoting inclusive practices, and working to improve policies that enhance their quality of life. They guide families in navigating complex systems and connect them with local resources, empowering them to speak up for their needs and pursue more independence and community participation.

The Michigan Down Syndrome Association helps individuals with Down syndrome and their families by providing support and resources. They offer workshops to educate, fun social activities, and support for families. Their goal is to empower people with Down syndrome to achieve their fullest potential. The organization also helps families navigate healthcare, education, and job opportunities, encouraging inclusion and independence at every stage of life.

United Cerebral Palsy of Michigan (UCP Michigan) is a nonprofit organization that helps people with cerebral palsy and other disabilities live more independent and fulfilling lives. They provide various resources and support to individuals and families, guiding them through important areas like living on their own, finding jobs, and accessing healthcare. UCP Michigan works to make communities more accessible and inclusive, ensuring that everyone has the same opportunities to participate and thrive. By connecting families with helpful information and encouraging them to speak up for themselves, UCP Michigan empowers people to make decisions that benefit their lives and to advocate for their rights.

Family & Caregiver

The Michigan Alliance for Families (MAF) supports families with children with disabilities by providing resources and guidance on navigating the special education system. They offer workshops and personal assistance to help parents advocate for their children's needs, ensuring they receive necessary support in school and beyond. MAF also fosters collaboration among families, schools, and communities to promote inclusion and better outcomes for children with disabilities across Michigan.

The Arc Michigan works across the state to support the rights and inclusion of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. They help individuals and their families find educational resources, job opportunities, and community services. Through advocacy and support, The Arc Michigan aims to guide families in understanding complicated systems and empower them to speak up for their loved ones’ needs. They also work with local chapters, creating a community of advocates dedicated to promoting independence, personal choice, and a better quality of life for people with disabilities throughout the state.

Independent Living and Community Support

The Center for Self-Determination is a nonprofit group that aims to empower people with disabilities. They believe in helping individuals take charge of their own lives. To do this, they offer personalized training, support, and helpful resources that focus on planning in a way that puts the person first. Their services include educational materials, workshops, and consulting, all aimed at helping people feel free, supported, and confident in making their own choices and managing their own resources.

Disability Network Michigan works across the state to support people with disabilities. They focus on helping individuals live more independently and engage fully in their communities. Through various programs, they provide support from peers, teach valuable skills, and encourage community involvement. The organization offers helpful resources on accessibility, self-advocacy, and overcoming everyday challenges, making it easier for individuals and their families to seek the help they need. 

Legal & Rights

The MDRC supports the rights and inclusion of people with disabilities throughout Michigan. They work to make positive changes by influencing public policies, educating communities, and organizing grassroots efforts. MDRC provides valuable resources, training, and support to help individuals with disabilities and their families speak up for what they need and deserve. The organization emphasizes the importance of self-determination and leadership, ensuring that the voices of people with disabilities are heard and respected in the community and decision-making processes. 

Policy and Systems

The Community Mental Health Association of Michigan (CMHA) works to ensure that everyone has access to quality mental health services and support, especially those dealing with disabilities, mental health issues, or substance use problems. They focus on raising awareness, advocating for better policies, and providing training to make mental health care more accessible in communities across Michigan. CMHA collaborates with local mental health organizations, lawmakers, and families to promote care that puts individuals first. They also help people and families by offering resources and guidance to help them understand mental health services, know their rights, and seek the support they need for a better quality of life.

The Michigan Developmental Disabilities Council (DD Council) is a state organization committed to enhancing the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities by advocating for inclusion, independence, and community integration. The DD Council works to influence public policy, fund community initiatives, and build partnerships that support people with disabilities and their families. Through grants, training programs, and resources, the DD Council empowers individuals and families to advocate for their rights, access vital services, and participate fully in their communities. The Council’s efforts foster a more inclusive Michigan where individuals with disabilities have equal opportunities to succeed and thrive.