Each school district has an advocate that they can refer you to. Ask for one in writing.
2365 Woodlake Drive, Ste. 100
Okemos, MI 48864
[phone] (517) 706-CAUSE (2287) or (800) 221-9105
[fax] (517) 347-1004
[web site] www.causeonline.org
Mission: "CAUSE shall provide a collaborative forum where consumers and providers can actively support an individualized, Free and Appropriate Education (FAPE) that enables ALL students to maximize their options in the world community. Our priority is the protection of the rights of students with disabilities."
CAUSE provides a multitude of services for children with disabilities and their families including: Parent advocacy training, education and support regarding legal rights and issues, IEP help, educational programming and much more.
North Main Street, Suite 205
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
[phone] (800) 890-6084
[fax] (734) 662-2699
[Coordinator] Jennifer Hill Buehrer
Partners in Policymaking is a leadership-training project funded by the Michigan Developmental Disabilities Council and implemented by the Association for Community Advocacy in Ann Arbor. Each year, an eight-session course is offered beginning in September, and applications for the upcoming course are now available. Partners in Policymaking are about systems change. It prepares adults with disabilities, and parents of young children with disabilities, representing various disabilities and cultures across Michigan, to advocate effectively with legislators and policymakers. Previous experience in leadership or involvement with disability organizations is not required. As a participant, you will learn and use skills to influence policy, and you will create and pursue a vision for people with disabilities.
[web site] www.tash.org
TASH is an international association of people with disabilities, their family members, other advocates, and professionals fighting for a society in which inclusion of all people in all aspects of society is the norm. TASH is an organization of members concerned with human dignity, civil rights, education, and independence for all individuals with disabilities. We have over thirty chapters and members from thirty-four different countries and territories. Since our inception over twenty-five years ago, TASH has gained international acclaim for our uncompromising stand against separatism, stigmatization, abuse and neglect. We actively promote the full inclusion and participation of persons with disabilities in all aspects of life. TASH believes that no one with a disability should be forced to live, work, or learn in a segregated setting; that all individuals deserve the right to direct their own lives. TASH 's mission is to eliminate physical and social obstacles that prevent equity, diversity, and quality of life.
See the CAUSE website:
[web site] www.causeonline.org/special_ed_attorneys.htm
