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Advocacy & Action

Centering family voices to create meaningful change for children and families.

Advocacy Led by Families

What Advocacy Looks Like at VFN

At Vermont Family Network, advocacy begins with families. Parents and caregivers are experts in their own lives, with firsthand knowledge of how health, mental health, and educational systems impact their children. Our Advocacy & Action program centers those lived experiences to inform decisions, shape policies, and create systems that better support children and youth with disabilities or special health needs.

Why Advocacy Matters

Families are often asked to navigate systems that were not designed with disability or neurodiversity in mind. Advocacy helps ensure that policies, programs, and practices reflect real family needs and promote inclusion, dignity, and access. When families share their experiences and priorities, decision-makers gain a clearer understanding of what works as well as what needs to change.

How Our Advocacy & Action Program Works

Our approach combines connection, education, and action. We support advocacy through:

  • Mobilizing families around issues that impact their lives
  • Advocacy training and leadership development
  • Grassroots advocacy and strategic partnerships
  • Creating safe spaces for families to connect and grow together

Ways to Get Involved

There are many ways to participate in advocacy at a level that feels right for you:

  • Advocacy Newsletter – The Source for Change – Stay informed with timely updates, advocacy tips, events, and calls to action.
  • Advocacy & Action Council – Join other families to advise on legislative priorities and key issues, with opportunities to meet regularly and learn from guest speakers.
  • Advocacy Events – Participate in VFN-hosted advocacy days, legislative meet-and-greets, and community events.
  • Training & Skill Building – Learn through workshops such as Advocacy 101, Advocacy 102, storytelling for change, campaign-building, and serving on boards or councils.
  • One-on-One Coaching – Receive personalized support to build confidence, reduce stress, and strengthen your advocacy skills.
  • Vermont Leadership Series – Participate in a statewide leadership training program for people with developmental disabilities and family members focused on disability rights and inclusive communities.

If you’re interested in receiving advocacy alerts, training opportunities, or learning how to get involved, contact us at info@vtfn.org.

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