Discover essential advocacy organizations for I/DD services in New Jersey and empower your loved ones today!
November 3, 2024
New Jersey boasts a robust advocacy community dedicated to supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). This community includes individual self-advocates, as well as local, regional, and statewide self-advocacy groups and organizations. A prominent entity within this network is the New Jersey Division of Developmental Disabilities Self-Advocacy Advisory Committee (SAAC), established in 2019, which comprises adults with I/DD, staff from the Division of Developmental Disabilities, the NJ Council on Developmental Disabilities, and The Boggs Center.
The primary goal of the SAAC is to facilitate communication among members of New Jersey's Self-Advocacy Community and the Division of Developmental Disabilities. This initiative seeks to amplify the voices of self-advocates and improve resources and educational opportunities for individuals utilizing services funded by the Division.
Self-advocacy groups play a crucial role within the advocacy framework for individuals with I/DD. They provide a platform for individuals to express their needs, concerns, and solutions related to the services they receive. Moreover, these groups foster empowerment by encouraging individuals with I/DD to take an active role in decision-making processes regarding their own care and support.
The Division of Developmental Disabilities regularly conducts quarterly Self-Advocacy Advisory Committee (SAAC) meetings aimed at enhancing resources, education, and stakeholder engagement for individuals using services funded by the Division. This approach not only strengthens advocacy but also helps ensure that the voices of individuals with I/DD are heard and respected [1].
Advocacy ComponentDescriptionSelf-Advocacy GroupsPlatforms for individuals to share experiences and advocacy efforts.SAACCommunication hub between self-advocates and the Division of Developmental Disabilities.Quarterly MeetingsRegular sessions to improve engagement and resources for I/DD services.
Through initiatives like the Peer-to-Peer Networking Sessions hosted by the DDD Office of Education, adults with I/DD who self-direct some or all DDD-funded services are given opportunities to connect with peers, share resources, and discuss experiences with self-direction [1]. This network of support actively enhances the lives of individuals with I/DD and promotes their engagement within the community.
The Arc of New Jersey is the largest organization dedicated to advocating for and serving children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) and their families within the state. This organization provides a robust network of Local County Chapters that offer community-based services across New Jersey. Families can access a wide range of support and resources through these local chapters [2].
The Arc of New Jersey also features a Family Institute, which assists individuals and their loved ones in navigating the system related to I/DD services. This assistance is vital for connecting families with necessary supports and information regarding available resources. Additionally, the organization encourages families to become involved in advocacy efforts, participate in action alerts, and raise awareness about crucial issues that affect those with I/DD and their families.
Key Services Provided by The Arc of New JerseyLocal county chapters with community-based servicesAssistance through the Family Institute for navigating I/DD servicesAdvocacy for disabilities awareness and support
The Statewide Parent Advocacy Network (SPAN) focuses on empowering families to be advocates and partners in enhancing educational, health, and behavioral health outcomes for children and youth throughout New Jersey. This organization collaborates closely with families, providing resources and information to help them effectively advocate for their children [3].
SPAN plays a significant role in fostering partnerships between families and local service providers, ensuring that the voices of families are heard in decision-making processes affecting their children's futures. By promoting an understanding of children's rights and available services, SPAN enables families to navigate complex systems of support more effectively.
Key Focus Areas of SPANEmpowering families as advocatesEnhancing education and health outcomesFostering partnerships between families and service providers
Advocacy organizations play a vital role in promoting awareness and support for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) in New Jersey. This section highlights two important organizations: Disability Rights New Jersey (DRNJ) and the New Jersey Council on Developmental Disabilities (NJCDD), as well as the Mom2Mom and the New Jersey Self-Advocacy Project (NJSAP).
Disability Rights New Jersey (DRNJ) is a private, non-profit organization dedicated to advocating for the rights of citizens in New Jersey with disabilities. Its mission is to advance the human, civil, and legal rights of individuals with disabilities, ensuring that they receive the necessary support and services.
The New Jersey Council on Developmental Disabilities (NJCDD) is actively involved in public policy initiatives aimed at empowering people with developmental disabilities. It addresses crucial needs such as housing, employment, transportation, and support systems. The NJCDD also provides a platform for parents and family members of individuals with developmental disabilities through Regional Family Support Planning Councils (RFSPCs), where they can share information and discuss family support services.
OrganizationFocus AreasDRNJAdvocacy for human, civil, and legal rightsNJCDDPublic policy, systems change, family support
Mom2Mom offers support and resources specifically for mothers of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This organization recognizes the unique challenges faced by these caregivers and aims to provide a supportive community where they can share their experiences and insights.
The New Jersey Self-Advocacy Project (NJSAP) focuses on promoting self-advocacy for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The organization relies on donations to fund its initiatives, aiming to enhance the voice and independence of individuals with I/DD within their communities. Through workshops and peer support, NJSAP empowers individuals to advocate for their needs and rights.
OrganizationMissionMom2MomSupport for mothers of individuals with I/DDNJSAPPromote self-advocacy for individuals with I/DD
These organizations are essential in advancing advocacy efforts and raising awareness about the needs and rights of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. They provide resources, support networks, and active advocacy for policy changes aimed at improving the lives of those they serve.
Access to resources is essential for families and caregivers of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) in New Jersey. This section will discuss two vital resources: Peer-to-Peer Networking Sessions and The Arc of New Jersey Family Institute.
The Peer-to-Peer Networking Sessions are conducted by the Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) and provide a valuable platform for adults with I/DD who self-direct some or all of their DDD-funded services. These sessions are designed for individuals to connect, share resources, and discuss their experiences related to self-direction [1].
These networking sessions serve several key purposes:
PurposeDescriptionConnecting PeersAdults with I/DD can meet others who are self-directing their services, fostering community and support.Resource SharingParticipants have the opportunity to exchange strategies and resources that have been helpful in their self-direction journey.Experience DiscussionIndividuals can discuss challenges and successes in self-directing their services, providing insight and encouragement to others.
The sessions are open to adults who are currently self-directing as well as those who wish to learn more about the process. This accessibility encourages broader participation and promotes the sharing of knowledge and experiences.
The Arc of New Jersey Family Institute is another critical resource for families and caregivers. This organization focuses on providing education, advocacy, and support for individuals with I/DD and their families. The Family Institute emphasizes empowering families through various programs and services.
Key offerings of The Arc of New Jersey Family Institute include:
Program/ServiceDescriptionEducational WorkshopsProvides families with knowledge about I/DD services, rights, and resources available in New Jersey.Advocacy TrainingEquips families with tools to advocate effectively for their loved ones, ensuring their voices are heard in various settings.Support GroupsOffers a community of support where families can share experiences, challenges, and triumphs in caring for individuals with I/DD.
These resources are invaluable in fostering a supportive environment and empowering families in their advocacy efforts for I/DD services in New Jersey. By engaging with these organizations, families can gain insights, connect with others, and enhance the quality of life for those with I/DD.
In New Jersey, several initiatives aim to empower individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (I/DD) and enhance their support systems. Two significant components of this empowerment are the Regional Family Support Planning Councils and various grant opportunities and advocacy initiatives available.
The Regional Family Support Planning Councils (RFSPC) play an essential role in supporting families and guardians of individuals with I/DD. These councils serve as a platform for sharing knowledge and information regarding the disability service delivery system. Members of the RFSPC receive training to advocate effectively for families and individuals with developmental or intellectual disabilities, focusing on local and state-level issues that impact their lives [5].
Purpose of RFSPCDescriptionKnowledge ExchangeProvides a platform for families to share experiences and information.Advocacy TrainingEquips members with skills to advocate for necessary changes.Policy InfluenceFocuses on issues impacting individuals with I/DD within the community.
The New Jersey Council on Developmental Disabilities (NJCDD) offers various grant opportunities aimed at developing innovative services for individuals with I/DD. These grants encourage the creation of new, creative, and sustainable programs that expand opportunities for people with developmental disabilities in New Jersey [5].
In addition to grants, NJCDD is actively involved in advancing public policy and systems change that empower people with developmental disabilities. Their efforts address crucial needs across multiple areas, such as:
Areas of FocusDescriptionHousingCreating accessible and affordable housing options.EmploymentPromoting job opportunities and training for individuals with I/DD.TransportationEnhancing transportation options to ensure mobility.Support SystemsImproving the quality and availability of necessary services.
These initiatives collectively aim to foster an inclusive environment for individuals with I/DD, ensuring they have access to the resources and support needed to thrive in society.
The Self-Advocacy Advisory Committee (SAAC) plays a crucial role in fostering communication between New Jersey's self-advocacy community and the Division of Developmental Disabilities. The Division conducts quarterly meetings to enhance resources, education, and stakeholder engagement for individuals utilizing services funded by the Division [1].
These meetings provide an opportunity for self-advocates to voice their concerns, share experiences, and suggest improvements in services. The SAAC's mission focuses on amplifying these voices within the advocacy community. Meeting schedules for 2025 and other relevant information are available for interested parties to ensure transparency and accessibility.
YearMeeting Schedule2025Available for download as PDF
For more details regarding the SAAC meetings, individuals may contact Ashley Ritchey at Ashley.Ritchey@dhs.nj.gov.
To improve the healthcare experience for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), the New Jersey Council on Developmental Disabilities (NJCDD) has initiated programs aimed at reinforcing the healthcare system. In collaboration with Woods System of Care, the NJCDD focuses on individuals who also have mental health conditions. This initiative is crucial for building capacity among healthcare providers.
Efforts are directed toward empowering families by providing tools and resources to effectively navigate the healthcare landscape. This approach aims to address the unique challenges faced by individuals with I/DD, ensuring they receive appropriate and timely care. The overall goal is to create an inclusive healthcare environment that recognizes and supports the needs of those with disabilities, ultimately leading to better health outcomes.
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