Affordable housing for people with I/DD is in low supply. Learn what ALSO is doing to make a difference.
Affordable housing for people with I/DD is in low supply. Learn what ALSO is doing to make a difference.
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world: indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.”
Margaret Mead, Anthropologist and Humanitarian
Great change in our society is made by everyday people. Perhaps they witnessed an injustice at school or work and said, “I wouldn’t want this for myself, or my loved one.” If that person followed their heart and took action, they became a changemaker.
The ALSO team invites you to discover your inner changemaker. Working together, ordinary people can band together to do extraordinary things. One of those extraordinary things is to give voices to persons with disabilities.
ALSO is a non-profit organization that provides support services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities throughout Oregon. Our Mission and Vision reflect our dedication to full inclusion and equal opportunity for all persons with disabilities within their communities.
Our world would be a much better place if more people became disability advocates. Disability advocacy isn’t only the right thing to do, but the best action for all of us. In addition to building awareness about disability, advocacy is a critical factor in obtaining equal opportunity in:
LEARN MORE: National Disability Rights Network.
Disability advocates make a positive impact in multiple ways. This incredible volunteer work doesn’t require special degrees, credentials, or titles, just a passion to make a difference in the lives of others. Here are just a few examples:
It’s no secret that volunteer services have broad benefits for those who donate their time. Here are some examples:
No matter what volunteer program someone chooses, mutual benefits are plentiful, such as creating friendships, building community, nurturing empathy, and the opportunity to create real social change.
LEARN MORE: UN Volunteers – Promoting Volunteerism and Inclusion for Sustainable Development Goals.
Volunteer disability advocacy is a catalyst for breaking down barriers that people with disabilities face. A great example is the parent movement that began in the middle of the 20th century.
Other barriers include:
Oftentimes, barriers can be addressed simply by increasing awareness. Other times, it takes more tenacity. Volunteers have been instrumental in exposing injustices through social media, political campaigns, and legal action.
LEARN MORE: World Health Organization Disability Overview.
As humans, we all have gifts – we encourage you to share yours! Whether you become a long-term support person or participate in a one-off event, your community service matters and pays social dividends many times over. Get involved by:
A powerful way to make an impact is by advocating for stronger disability benefits at the local, state, and federal levels. Whether you’re a family member, friend, professional, or passionate ally, your voice matters.
Locally, attend town halls, school board meetings, and county commissioner sessions to speak up for better funding for disability services and higher wages for Direct Support Professionals (DSPs). These essential workers are often underpaid despite the critical support they provide. Writing op-eds or organizing community awareness events can also elevate the conversation.
At the state level, contact your legislators to support bills that increase the Medicaid asset limit, which currently forces many disabled individuals to remain in poverty to maintain benefits. Join coalitions or grassroots campaigns that push for inclusive policy changes and share your personal stories to humanize the issues.
You also can advocate for updates to Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), including increasing payment rates and modernizing eligibility rules. Call or write to your representatives in Congress, participate in national advocacy days, or join organizations that lobby for these reforms. Social media campaigns and petitions can also build momentum for legislative change.
No matter the level, consistent advocacy adds up. Your efforts can help create a more equitable and dignified system for people with disabilities—because everyone deserves support that reflects their true value and needs.
It’s time to take a closer look at yourself…see the power you have to make a difference! You are vital to creating a more accessible and equitable world.
Whether you have five hours or five minutes, your voice matters, your support matters. Let’s make a difference – together.
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Help us ensure that everyone has the same opportunities in their home, workplace and community. Let’s make dreams!
