What is an Advocate? What Can You Do?

An advocate is someone who helps others speak up for themselves, or listens carefully to what another person says and speaks up for that person's needs and wants.

DSC is a leader in advocacy. For many years, the State of Illinois has continued to decrease funding to people with disabilities and over the past few years, these cuts have become drastic, affecting the lives of thousands in our state. We work with our advocacy partners, Illinois Association of Rehabilitation Facilities (IARF) to help spread advocacy needs and updates.

IARF was formed in the early 1970's by a small group of frustrated rehabilitation professionals. Represented by both physical vocational rehabilitation organizations, the Association arose out of the need for providers of community disability and mental health services and supports to be better represented in legislative and state policy decisions. Its primary purpose is to assist in the development and improvement of services to Illinois rehabilitation facilities and the clients and patients of those facilities through study, experiment, and exchange of experience. DSC is one of nearly 80 member agencies providing services and supports. Learn more at https://www.iarf.org/.

DSC's Board of Directors and Management Team firmly believes that it is our responsibility to advocate on behalf of children and adults with developmental disabilities in our state and together we work to lead the way in these efforts. As specific advocacy needs arise, we will post information on our home page and provide email blasts to our supporters. Are you on Facebook? If so, "Like" "DSC" (@DSCChampaign) and you will receive the most up-to-date information.

If you have questions or would like to participate in our efforts, please contact Jodie Harmon, Vice President of Development and Communications, at jharmon@dsc-illinois.org.