Send a letter to State representatives and Governor Kathy Hochul, reminding them that their constituents need these demands met in the budget. Your letter will make a difference - it is so important for politicians to hear from you when they make decisions about laws that affect you, especially the state budget.
As one of the largest I/DD service providers in New York State, YAI encompasses a large community we need to engage. A substantial percentage of I/DD-related funding comes from the government. Therefore, it is crucial to work together to make our needs known.
YAI’s advocacy efforts pull together the people we support, their families, staff, and other stakeholders, and provide the tools to enact change. We work closely with YAI self advocates to lead us in advocating for people with I/DD, while ensuring the needs of our workforce are escalated to government.
We need your help. When our community bands together and speaks as one, we cannot be ignored. Here you'll find here opportunities to join rallies, participate in actions, make phone calls, or easily send emails.
Help support YAI and the I/DD community by supporting the action below — these actions will change, so check in often!
YAI Self Advocates
The most powerful advocates are passionate people who understand an issue from personal experience. YAI's Self Advocates dedicate their time to helping the community at-large understand disabilities and disability support from a human angle.
FAC mission is to enhance communication between families and all YAI network agencies, enabling families to make recommendations while also assisting YAI with family-led initiatives.
YAI is a proud member of the following advocacy organizations: ANCOR (American Network of Community Options and Resources), IAC (InterAgency Council-NYC), and CDSA (California Disability Services Association).
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Reach out to learn more about our advocacy efforts.
Advocacy resources beyond YAI
Advocates for Children
Advocates for Children of New York works on behalf of children who are at greatest risk for school-based discrimination and/or academic failure.
Disability and Civil Rights Clinic at Brooklyn Law School
The Disability and Civil Rights Clinic is a law school clinic at Brooklyn Law School that provides free civil legal services for adults with I/DD living in New York City.
