CCDC Disability Advocacy

CCDC Engages Daily in Individual and Systemic Advocacy!

Individual advocacy is the process of assisting an individual member to correct a problem with the system such as obtaining or maintaining a benefit or service or solving a problem with a service provider, landlord, employer, etc.  Systemic advocacy (Policy and Legislation) is the process of changing rules or laws that interfere with the rights of all people with disabilities.  

Our advocates are:

• Leaders who hold policy-making positions both statewide and locally
• Building the next set of community leaders within the disability community
• Catalysts for cohesive activism
• Developing innovative ideas
• Promote full participation by people with disabilities in the community by supporting employment, civic engagement, and complete integration
• Working to make Colorado the leading state for percentage of people with disabilities who vote in the nation

We believe in Nothing About Us Without Us!

This demands that people with disabilities must have meaningful involvement and decision-making power regarding rules and policies which impact our daily lives. This must occur on an individual and systemic basis at the same time.  It is our advocates who are leading this charge.

Individual Advocacy

Individual advocacy is NOT case management and is not direct services. Individual advocacy includes but is not limited to representing people at administrative and informal hearings and appeals, attending meetings, or writing letters on behalf of individuals.  Individual advocacy is provided by trained non-attorney advocates.  Follow this linkto learn more about our Individual Advocacy Program and see if we can help you resolve your issue.

Systemic Advocacy

Systemic advocacy involves activities such as attending policy-related meetings, sitting on formal boards and commissions, active involvement with informal working groups, showing up at the state capitol to educate lawmakers about our issues, and grassroots organizing.  Follow this link to learn more about our Systemic Advocacy Program and decide if you are ready to get involved and make a difference.