As a parent or caregiver, you are your child's best advocate.  You know that child better than anyone else.  You are the ONE true constant in that child's life from birth on.  As a parent/caregiver you have more power than you think to make change in your families life and the lives of others.

Ways you can advocate;

*Get involved in:

    Your local Interagency Coordinating Council  
    Your local Family Network 
    The Oregon Council of Developmental Disabilities - www.ocdd.org
    The PTA at your child's school
    Local or state government


* Share YOUR story with:

    Your state and federal legislators - https://www.oregonlegislature.gov/FindYourLegislator/leg-districts.html
    Friends and family
    Co-workers
    Local Civic organizations

Making a difference with your story

Additional Advocacy Resources:
www.copaa.org - Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates
www.thearcoregon.org - advocacy & Oregon Special Needs Trust
www.disabilityrightsoregon.org - Oregon's protection and advocacy system
www.ndrn.org - National Disability Rights Network
www.fape.org - Families and Advocates Partnership for Education
www.wrightslaw.com – Education & Disability law
www.partnersonlinecourses.com - Partners in Policymaking free online courses
www.oregoniddcoalition.org - Oregon IDD Coalition