Self-advocacy or advocacy for a close family member is often difficult especially when it comes to faith communities.  Some persons can do this well.  Others very much need a third party, someone who is able to bridge the gap between themselves and the leadership of a faith congregation.

If you need an additional encouragement and advocacy to help you connect with your faith community, consider these ideas:

• Contact an office, organization, or network that works specifically in your faith tradition.
• Encourage your congregation to appoint a Disabilities Advocate.
• Connect with others who share your concerns through a blog.  Contact the CAN Office is you are interested in blogging on the CAN website.

Inclusion Handbook: Everybody Belongs Everybody Serves. A good beginning handbook published by Disability Concerns, Christian Reformed Church in North America and the Christian Reformed Church in America especially for their congregational and regional advocates. Download free or order copies from Faith Alive.