How to Find Disability Advocates
Most people who need an advocate have no difficulty finding one, but people with disability sometimes find it very difficult to find one. Since, these organizations know the laws governing the disability population as well as their needs. If you are disabled, there are ways to find a disability advocate, so read further to obtain info.
- Know the type of advocacy you are looking for. If you have a legal issue, then you would look for legal representation to help you solve your case. Another example, if there is a law that you think needs changing; contact a lobbyist group to help bring your concern to the congress.
- Understand the goals of the advocacy group or individuals you selected, and make sure you know the cost involve for their service. Consider contacting existing organization that can help you assess what you need to resolve your issues. For example, if you are having housing issues there are organizations already in place that you can contact for those issues.
- Contact at least three advocacy groups and meet with them in person. Ask questions at the meeting such as have the organization handled similar cases to yours, how do the communicate with the people they are helping do they give a progress report or do they wait until the case is completed. Ask for references from the advocates you are thinking about using, and ask the advocate about the organizations work habits.
- Choose the organization that you feel best meet your needs as well as expectations.
- Come up with a goal completion date of your issues with the advocated. Of course, this depends on the issue because some issues such trying to change a law will take much longer than finding appropriate housing.
- Contact your advocate on a regular basis to check the status of your case. Provide the advocate all the information necessary to resolve your issue and be accurate with your information.