Community / Systems Change Advocacy

SCRS provides access to empower people with disabilities to advocate on their own behalf. The mission of our Community / Systems Change Advocate is to empower people with disabilities to achieve full participation in their community through tracking legislation, organization contacts, and systems change advocacy on disability issues. The Community / Systems Change Advocate has a leadership role in the following actions:

• Legislative sessions (bill tracking, opposition/support of bills)

• Federal, state, and local budgets

• Ongoing threats to the ADA

• Rapidly changing status of Rancho Los Amigos National Rehabilitation Center

• Local issues within the 17 cities comprising our catchments area
  

SCRS is aware of the potential for rapid changes in emerging advocacy issues and recognizes the need to remain flexible. Our mission is to keep focused on various issues that involve the disability community, such as the state budget, health care, accessible and affordable housing, In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS), the Olmstead Act, and Access. The Community/Systems Advocate evaluates the importance and urgency of these issues and communicates directly with the Executive Director and the Assistant Director. Their evaluation of the issues determines what response the agency makes.

To ensure that the voices of people with disabilities are heard, community education and advocacy is essential. SCRS contacts local policy makers, businesses, schools, churches, and more to get the word out about the needs and contributions of individuals with disabilities.