Advocacy Steps

1.  Identify the current problem

•  What is the issue or disagreement?

•  What is needed?

•  What do I specifically want?

•  What does the other side want?

2. Obtain complete information

•  Look at and obtain copies of records, evaluations, etc.

•  Know the laws, regulations, and policies

•  Obtain an independent evaluation if necessary

3.   Look at it from the viewpoint of the other side

• What do they want and why?

•  Try to understand their arguments

•  How does the their viewpoint differ from mine?

4.   Make contacts

• People with disabilities and their families

• Other disability advocates or professionals

• Psychologists, physicians, therapists and counselors

5.   Talk with someone else before a meeting. It helps to:

• Gain a different perspective

• Organize one's thoughts and arguments

• "Blow off steam" and calm oneself

6.   Make a plan

•  What am I going to do?

•  Who is going to do what, when, when, and where?

•  Whom am I going to contact, and how will I approach them?

•  What are my goals and what am I prepared to settle for?

•  Are letters necessary?

•  Is a meeting needed?

7.   What are the alternatives?

•  Look at all alternative solutions (talk to others)

8. TAKE ACTION

•  Be persistent

•  Use efficient communication

•  Follow through

Adapted from 5/22/98 revised document by The Advocacy Center     Rochester, NY