Some people find help, support and empowerment through participation and membership in advocacy organizations. Many advocacy organizations help their members learn how to influence the system of services and improve the care available for people with disabilities.  The largest statewide advocacy organization for people with developmental disabilities is The Arc of Illinois.  The Arc of Illinois is committed to empowering persons with disabilities to achieve full participation in community life through informed choices.   To learn more about The Arc of Illinois, please visit their website at www.thearcofil.org.

Another important advocacy organization in Illinois is the Family Support Network (FSN).  The mission of the Family Support Network is to unify individuals with disabilities and their families to advocate for funding, services, and community resources that strengthen and support the individual and the family directly by responding to their individual needs and empowering them to live in their own homes. The Family Support Network further seeks to ensure the continuation of all individual supports throughout the life span of the individual.  You can learn more about the FSN at www.familysupportnetwork.org