Making a Change: Advocates First
Advocates First is a group of people with disabilities who work closely with Ability 1st to serve as a voice for people with disabilities to make necessary changes in the community. We meet every month at Ability 1st’s Provo location to discuss issues facing people with disabilities such as affordable housing, public transportation, emergency preparedness, government policies, and apsects of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Our mission is to advocate for greater accessibility and inclusivity for everyone, and to find ways to increase the independence of and remove the barriers facing people with disabilities everywhere.
Joining Advocates First is a great chance for people with disabilities to raise their voices and make a difference in their lives and the lives of others like them. Members are also able to develop leadership and communication skills to improve their ability to participate in their community.
Many local politicians and community agencies have attended Advocates First meetings to hear what people with disabilities have to say and what amendments to local ordinances are important to them. Additionally, Advocates First and many Ability 1st consumers visit the Salt Lake City Capitol every January to participate in the annual legislative activities provided by the Legislative Coalition for People with Disabilities (LCPD) for Disability Advocacy Day. It’s a great opportunity for those with disabilities to meet their representatives and legislators to express the needs and changes they want in their communities.
Advocates First also serves as an opportunity to establish friendships among consumers of Ability 1st Utah and creates an environment of camaraderie united by a purpose and goal.