Self-Advocacy

Advocate for yourself in any situation.

What is Self-Advocacy?

The term “self-advocate” can seem like a scary concept. Some people imagine long time commitments, or marches to Jefferson City. However, what it truly means is having the right to speak up and discuss things that affect you. Sometimes these are uncomfortable conversations with people who are considered experts. However, if you do not express what is important to you, no one else will know. This could include asking your doctor questions, following up with your case worker about funding for programs, or talking with your teacher about your future goals.

The St. Louis Arc offers a variety of ways for you to strengthen yourself advocacy skills, so that you can become your best advocate.

Vote

Exercising your right to vote is an important piece to self-advocacy. The first step to voting in local, state, and national elections is to ensure you are registered to vote at your current address. You are able to look up your voter registration status online.  If you are not registered to vote or need to update your voting address, you can do so online or you can go to your nearest Department of Motor Vehicle office, Social Security Office, or Post Office to register in person.  If you need help to register to vote, please contact [email protected].

St. Louis Self-Advocates8 young adults stand next to each other in two rows smiling for a photo

The St. Louis Self-Advocates are St. Louis area adults seeking to empower each other, to increase awareness about disability-related issues, and improve their community. Our members are St. Louis area residents, ages 18 and up, who have a diagnosed disability. The group’s committees reflect the goals and vision of the group: 

  • Advocacy: to improve the lives of people with disabilities through thoughtful political engagement
  • Quality: to improve the services provided to people with disabilities through participation in agency leadership, staff training, and more
  • Morale: to create a sense of community and friendship among membership
  • Marketing: to increase awareness and bring attention to the group’s activities

For more information or to sign up, contact Hannah Satterwhite at 314-941-1642.

Missouri ABLE Accounts

Missouri ABLE Accounts are now available for people with disabilities. This tool can help people save money, without penalties to their Medicaid benefits. Learn more about how you can plan and save for your future.

Individual Rights and Responsibilities

Individuals and family members receiving support from the St. Louis Arc are afforded basic individual rights. As a government funded and CQL accredited agency, the Arc ensures individuals are able to exercise these rights to the fullest extent. Additionally, the Arc incorporates the Universal Declaration of Human Rights of the United Nations and the constitution into the agency’s practices. Download the full Rights and Responsibilities document for more information.