Disability advocacy involves promoting, protecting, and defending the rights of people with disabilities. Advocates work to ensure equal access to services, employment, education, housing, and transportation. They may provide support on an individual level, help groups of people with disabilities, or work towards systemic changes in policies and practices to improve the lives of those with disabilities.
The North Country Center for Independence is part of a statewide system that collaborates with the New York Association for Independent Living (NYAIL). We advocate for policies that enhance accessibility, support community integration, and promote equal opportunities for people with disabilities.
NCCI strives to advance many policies that support equal access and opportunities, including:
Public and home accessibility
Home-based and long-term care support
Affordable and accessible housing
Public and medical transportation
Disability employment
Community enjoyment and recreation
Voting and citizen engagement
Access to community services and public benefits
Legislative and budgetary advocacy focus on laws and where money is allocated in the New York State budget. To learn more about these priorities, click here:
A legislative alert is a notification sent to inform individuals about significant updates or actions related to specific legislation, such as new bills, amendments, or important votes. These alerts help keep people engaged and aware of legislative developments that may impact their interests or advocacy efforts.
Our statewide advocacy priorities can be found here:
New York Association on Independent Living (NYAIL)
New York State Independent Living Council (NYSILC)
National Council on Independent Living (NCIL)
National Council on Disability
American Disabled for Attendant Programs Today (ADAPT)
American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD)
National Disability Rights Network
Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN)
The Arc