LaCAN (Louisiana Council’s Advocacy Network) furthers the Council’s mission by advocating for policies and systems that support inclusion everywhere people learn, work, live, and play. LaCAN advocates for service systems that support children and adults with disabilities to live in their own homes and be fully-included and participating members of their local schools and communities.
LaCAN provides information and support to individuals wishing to effectively advocate for systems change in the areas of home and community-based services, education, and employment. Regional LaCAN teams include individuals with disabilities, their family members, and professionals. These members are notified by email or phone when communication with state agency officials, legislators or the Governor is necessary.
GUIDING PRINCIPLES
- Children, regardless of the severity of their disability, need families and enduring relationships with adults in a nurturing home environment to develop to their fullest potential.
- Adults with developmental disabilities should be afforded the opportunity to make decisions for themselves, live in typical homes and communities, and exercise their full rights and responsibilities as citizens.
- People with developmental disabilities, regardless of the severity of their disability, should have the opportunity and support needed to gain and maintain competitive, integrated, individualized employment.
- All students, with or without disabilities, should be provided the same opportunities to be educated in neighborhood schools as their sisters, brothers, friends, and neighbors.
- All students, with or without disabilities, should be provided with the support to learn together effectively, involving family, school, and community.
BENEFITS TO MEMBERSHIP
You can help improve the systems that serve individuals with developmental disabilities by joining the LaCAN and participating in its advocacy efforts. There are no dues or fees to join and your activity level is up to you. Here are just a few of the benefits to joining LaCAN:
- CONNECTION – become a part of a regional team of advocates
- INFORMATION – receive current information on proposed policy changes and how those changes may affect you and others
- TRAINING – learn skills to effectively advocate for systems change
- SUPPORT – receive assistance from a regional LaCAN Leader who will link you with your policymakers and support your advocacy efforts
Linking lawmakers, individuals with disabilities, and family members to make positive change in systems serving people with disabilities.
To learn more about LaCAN’s current agenda items or to join their grassroots network, please go to their website at: http://laddc.org/Initiatives.cfm?aid=6&id=63
LaCAN is funded by the Louisiana Developmental Disabilities Council.
