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Individual
and
systems advocacy are core to all services
provided by the
Independent Living Center of Northeast Kansas.
Individual
advocacy consists of acting on behalf of another person or
encouraging the individual to act on his/her own behalf to deal with
administrative procedures of various agencies, settle disputes,
secure services or benefits to which the person is entitled, and
safeguard legal and human rights.
Systems advocacy
involves working together to make large-scale changes in
existing services, and administrative systems to create, enhance and
enforce the right of people with disabilities to have their needs
met.
Individual and systems advocacy are provided in various
ways including, but not limited to:
- Training/education
of the individual and/or community
- Information
about legal rights and legislative issues
- Contacting
legislators
- Grassroots
advocacy groups
- Letter
writing campaigns
- Information
and referral to appropriate resources and services
- Empowering people with
disabilities to control their own lives
Benefits
counseling is designed to assist with the interpretation of
Social Security Administration rules which affect persons with
disabilities and the ability to work without fear of losing benefits
or healthcare coverage.
Assistance is
also given with the application process for state programs which
allow individuals to become more independent. |
