The Self Advocates of Calhoun County are celebrating two-years of empowering adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) during this Disability Pride Month.
The advocacy group formed in 2024, gathering adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) to gain skills to direct their own lives. Members participate in monthly meetings, communicate with state lawmakers, attend civic events, and work to raise awareness of the needs and concerns of those with IDD in the community.
Since then, the group has grown significantly. A major focus over the last year has been civic engagement and legislative advocacy. During Voices in Action Day in April, members traveled to the State Capitol to meet with Senator Thomas Albert and staff from Representative Steve Frisbie's office to discuss critical legislation, including Senate Bills 1007 and 1008 regarding guardianship, as well as healthcare concerns.
“It makes me feel like I’m being heard," said Self Advocates member, Charlie Gale, referring to his experience at Voices in Action Day, "Because the best way for our reps to hear us is to speak to them or to their representatives.”
The group's advocacy efforts also extend into local neighborhoods and the upcoming election cycle. They recently joined a Get Out the Vote Coalition and plan to visit group homes, provide transportation to polling places, and help individuals register to vote, while also attending local housing commission meetings to address affordable housing barriers.
Beyond civic involvement, the Self Advocates have launched a Speakers Bureau to educate the public about living with a disability and to encourage people to be more inclusive and open-minded. Members have co-presented in high school classrooms, spoken at local Rotary meetings, and plan to have an information booth at the upcoming DKDC Back to School Event on August 25.
The Self Advocates efforts to “create a community that is more livable for people of all abilities” is made possible in part by a grant from the Battle Creek Community Foundation. Grant funds help pay for services, staff time, meeting expenses, and transportation. Funds have also been used for outreach and communications to attract new members.
“The Self Advocates are breaking stereotypes and just by being out and contributing to community conversations speaking about their experiences," said Clare Tanner, Executive Director of The Arc of Calhoun County. "Shining a light on their activities and achievements has the power to change public attitudes about what people with intellectual and developmental disabilities can do.”
For more information about the Self Advocates of Calhoun County, contact us at (269) 966-2575.
