Advocacy comes naturally to Joseph Matos, Assistant Supervisor of YAI's Bay Ridge IRA. He has been to Albany once before, spoke at a City Hall rally and considers it part of his job. He didn't hesitate when asked to join a YAI contingent of 39 staff members and Self-Advocates at the New York State Association of Community Residential Agencies'-New York State Rehabilitation Association's annual lobbying day last week.

Building on the #bFair2DirectCare initiative, lobbyists urged legislators to approve $45 million in the state budget to provide a living wage for thousands of Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) and other key staff in the disabilities service system throughout New York State.

"In the current political climate, to have people dedicated to an important, passionate cause is really motivating," Joseph said.

Powerful Advocacy Experience 

Kenny Modoo, Assistant Supervisor at YAI's Glebe Ave. IRA, found lobbying at the state capital not only powerful, but also energizing. He was proud to lead a team from Manhattan and the Bronx on appointments with legislators from those districts. "It reinvigorated me," he said. "Seeing my team light up after connecting with lawmakers was very fulfilling."

Many staff members who had previously attended lobbying day, noticed a different energy level surrounding the campaign as legislators were quite familiar with the living wage issue.

Lawmakers Aware of DSPs and Challenges

"I always remember spending time educating legislators about the work of DSPs," said Cameo Todd, YAI Residential Coordinator in Queens. "This is the first time I didn’t have to do that in any appointments."

'We Love What We Do'

Ashara Edwards, Senior Supervisor of YAI's E. 35th St., Suite 2 and 3, IRA, told state representatives that making ends meet is challenging. "We love what we do," she said. "We want to stay in the field, but if we can't be compensated it becomes difficult."  

Self-Advocates Shine

Self-Advocates shared personal stories with legislators and aides about the impact DSPs have on their lives. The work of YAI Regional Self-Advocacy Advisors shined throughout the day, impressing Senators and Assembly Members.

"Nothing could be more powerful than hearing Erica's (Martinez) and Helen's (Ng) stories," said Gaby Naranjo, DSP at YAI's Wagner IRA, describing two members of the Westchester Self-Advocacy Group. "We do so much advocating for the people we support. Watching them stick up for our jobs was incredible."

'Give Them a Living Wage'

Joseph Matos agreed. "They got straight to the point," he said. "They came in saying, 'We need more money. We're not going to have good quality services if they don't have sufficient salaries. Give them a living wage.' "

"We really need to get more money for staff," said Greta Horn, a member of YAI's Manhattan Self-Advocacy Group, who lives in a supported apartment. "The cost of living is going up, many of them are going to schools and it's hard for them."

Legislators Listening

Liliana Villatoro, Assistant BIS at YAI's Woodycrest IRA, described the experience as empowering. "As DSPs, we often wonder, are any of our legislators listening to us?" she said. "It's comforting to know that they did listen and want to do something for us."

Experience Fuels Desire to Do More

Kathryn Leonard, Assistant Supervisor of YAI's Mainstream At Camp program, saw the impact of advocacy during the trip, her first to Albany. "Now  that I got a little taste of it, I'm excited to do more lobbying and be more involved in advocacy in our field."

Erica Martinez's words came from the heart. "We share a very special bond with the staff," she said. "I felt honored to be advocating for them."

Self-Advocates Standing Up for Staff

"I felt so fortunate to have (people RCALD supports) there advocating for our staff members," said Erica Arancibia, RCALD Assistant Director. "They understand that they do not make a lot of money and it is important that they get paid properly for all of their hard work."

Being invited in the Assembly Chamber by Assemblyman Mike Miller, who read the names of the six YAI lobbyists from Queens and described the organization, was a highlight for Michelle Israel, YAI's Queens Regional Director. Equally exciting, Michelle said, was when another friend of YAI spoke on the Assembly floor. Assemblyman Jeffrion Aubry, a longtime supporter of YAI, said, "I know YAI and the great work YAI does. I'm so in support of a living wage for DSPs at this great organization."

Thanks to everyone, especially Sarah Mills and Jonice Mendoza in Program Operations for their support, and all the team leaders, for making YAI's voice heard. Keep up the great work!