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Experts Panel

State and Local Government

Empowering Voices:
Why Engagement Matters

  • Advocacy Impact: State and local policies directly affect I/DD services, so engagement ensures relevant advocacy.

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  • Access to Funding: Many local governments can offer grants for I/DD nonprofits, supporting growth and sustainability.

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  • Tailored Programs: Working with local governments creates community-focused solutions for I/DD needs.

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  • Stronger Networks: Building local relationships fosters collaboration with other service providers and agencies.

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  • Greater Influence: Engagement boosts visibility and influence in decisions impacting people with I/DD.

Power in Partnership

Engaging state and local government as key stakeholders allows organizations to influence policies, secure funding, and build partnerships to improve support and programs for people with I/DD.

Build Relationships

Build lasting relationships with government officials by identifying and engaging key stakeholders in disability policy, using customized outreach templates, and following our meeting guide. Share powerful stories, data, and solutions from the I/DD community to create meaningful impact

Community Engagement

Encourage organizing events where government officials and the community can discuss I/DD issues together. Ideas include hosting town halls, arranging site visits to programs, and partnering for awareness days. Use our flyer templates and press release formats to promote these events, and follow our tips for inviting officials to speak or attend. After the event, use suggested follow-up strategies to keep the dialogue and relationship going.

Advocacy and Storytelling

Empower advocates to share impactful stories that resonate with officials and highlight the agency's work. Our guide helps volunteers, family members, and people with I/DD craft personal experiences into compelling narratives. Use video and social media campaigns, tagging local officials and using relevant hashtags, to amplify these stories. For public testimonies, we offer guidance and templates to prepare advocates for council or committee meetings, ensuring their stories and policy needs are clearly presented.

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Media and Public Awareness

Shine a light on I/DD issues and build community awareness. Our press kit includes fact sheets, press releases, and FAQs to help share your story. Find tips on connecting with local media to cover events, publish op-eds, and feature impactful stories that bring visibility to the people we serve.

Policy Advocacy and Legislative Action

Equip nonprofit leaders and stakeholders with essential advocacy tools, including petition templates for community signatures to present to government officials, and a comprehensive Advocacy Campaign Guide outlining steps for gathering support, leveraging social media, and presenting a united front to decision-makers. Stay connected with your state ARC Chapter for ongoing resources and support

Follow Up and Accountability

Guide nonprofit stakeholders on maintaining engagement and holding officials accountable with practical tools. Access follow-up templates for emails and letters to use after meetings or events to track government officials' commitments, monitor policy changes, and evaluate advocacy progress.

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Contact

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