Navigating complex systems of support can leave families and individuals feeling frustrated and alone. The Arc of the Gulf Coast provides free advocacy services throughout the lifetime of an individual living with an intellectual and/or developmental disability:
			
			
		 From birth to early childhood (ages birth to 3)
		
	
			
			
		 School aged children (ages 3 to 21)
		
	
			
			
		 Adults living with intellectual and developmental disabilities (age 21 and older)
		
	We support both the individual with the disability and/or their family/guardians
ADVOCACY SERVICES OFFERED
			
			
		 Provide information regarding disability determination eligibility & options for evaluations
		
	
			
			
		 Listen to individuals with I/DD and their families to understand their wishes, needs, and goals
		
	
			
			
		 Help individuals with I/DD and their families navigate laws, rules, and regulations that govern services for adults and children
		
	
			
			
		 Assistance with SSI, Medicaid, Long Term Care, Early Intervention, and Vocational Rehabilitation
		
	
			
			
		 Protect the human and civil rights of individuals living with I/DD
		
	
			
			
		 Facilitate conflict resolution
		
	
			
			
		 Attend IEPs, Service Planning, and other meetings to provide support
		
	
			
			
		 Help determine services available for individuals with I/DD and assist them and their family/guardian in accessing services
		
	
			
			
		 Assist individuals with I/DD and their families with follow up to assure they are receiving appropriate services
		
	
			
			
		 For Individual Advocacy Services, please contact our Lead Advocacy Specialist at 281-245-3918 or advocacy@arcgulfcoast.org. You can also fill out the form below: