Whether your most recent exposure to government was in a 4th grade history class or a doctorate level policy course, you can effectively advocate for yourself and your community by accessing the right tools. The following links are provided to further empower you. Remember… your most powerful resource is your personal experience, and elected officials serve to represent the concerns that matter most to you.

For questions about any of the resources listed, please contact your local MDA office or e-mail MDA’s National Advocacy Office at advocacy@mdausa.org.

Educational Advocacy
MDA Publications
Department of Education
Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (OSERS)

Elected Officials
State Representatives
Senate
House of Representatives

Emergency Preparedness
American Red Cross – Emergency Shelter Information App

Employment Benefits/Resources
Choose Work
The Ticket to Work
Going to Work: A Guide to Social Security Benefits and Employment for Young People with Disabilities
The Partnership Plus Online Toolkit
Employment Resource Specifically for Job Candidates with Disabilities
Institute for Educational Leadership
Job Accommodation Network
The Washington Center for Internships & Academic Seminars - Federal Government Internships
Workforce Recruitment Program

Legislative Progress
Legislative Glossary
THOMAS - Library of Congress

Medical Benefits
Social Security Disability Guidebook
Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services
Medicare Rights Center

Personal Disability Rights
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
ADA Enforcement – DOJ Status Report
Access Board
Administration on Developmental Disabilities
Equal Rights Center
GINAhelp.org
The Genetic Nondiscrimination Act In Action

Research Advocacy
Research!America Your Congress Your Health

Travelers with Disabilities
Angel Flight
Patient AirLift Services
Transportation Security Administration’s Tips for Travelers

Other
The Affordable Care Act’s Prevention and Public Health Fund in Your State
Disability.gov