Advocacy

At the Miami County Board of Developmental Disabilities (MCBDD), we encourage the people we serve to learn more about speaking up and making informed decisions in their lives. Through monthly meetings, conferences, workshops and information sessions, our Adventures in Advocacy members gain the skills they need to become their best advocates.

Our dedicated staff takes an individualized approach when helping the people we serve determine their definition of a "good life." Using tools like Charting the LifeCourse, we empower each person to consider 3 things: what is important to me, how to best support me and my vision for a good life. For more information about Adventures in Advocacy, please contact us.

Your Voice Matters

When you learn to speak up for yourself, you can determine what happens in your life.

Self-Advocacy

By being your own advocate, you will unlock your potential and build the confidence you need to live a good life.

10 Steps to Effective Self-Advocacy

  • Learn what steps you can take to become your best advocate and speak up for yourself.
  • Learn Your Rights
  • Discuss Concerns & Questions
  • Be Effective on the Phone
  • Believe in Yourself
  • Communicate in Writing
  • Get Information in Writing
  • Use the Chain of Command
  • Know Rights & Responsibilities
  • Follow Up & Say, "Thank You"
  • Ask for Help

Regional Advocacy

Featuring our group, Adventures in Advocacy, this 8-county collaboration brings together advocates from our area.

The group meets in a different county every month. During meetings, they discuss advocacy topics and hear from guest speakers. They also share what is working and what is not in each of their programs.

Information Sessions

We encourage advocates to stay educated about their rights and choices by offering information sessions on various subjects.

Project STIR

A four-day workshop, Project STIR sharpens advocacy skills and trains participants on teaching others to be better advocates.

People First Conference

The People First Conference, a three-day event, encourages advocates to participate and learn advocacy tips from guest speakers.

Synergy

Each October, OSDA (Ohio Self-Determination Association) and PAR (Professionals, Advocates, Resources) hosts their conference in Sandusky. MCBDD is an OSDA member and typically sponsors several advocates to attend the conference. To learn more about Synergy, we invite you to watch the video below.