Self-advocacy or advocacy for a close family member is often difficult especially when it comes to faith communities.  Some families can do this well.  Other families very much need a third party, someone who is able to bridge the gap between themselves and the leadership of a faith congregation. 

If you need an additional encouragement and advocacy to help you connect with your faith community, consider these ideas:

• Contact an office, organization, or network that works specifically in your faith tradition.
• Encourage your congregation to appoint a Disabilities Advocate.
• Join an email list for support and discussion about the issues that are important to you.  CAN has several email lists for this purpose. 
• Connect with others who share your concerns through a blog.  CAN offers a blog on disabilities and faith. 

Advocacy Resources

Inclusion Handbook: Everybody Belongs Everybody Serves. A good beginning handbook published by Disability Concerns, Christian Reformed Church in North America and the Chrisitian Reformed Church in America especially for their congregational and regional advocates. Download free or order copies from Faith Alive.