Our subject matter experts discuss how learning to advocate for yourself or others takes time and practice as they break down the process into simple steps. First: Know your rights and the law/policy. Next: Know your resources. Third: Focus on building relationships, and finally: Stay organized and prioritize. If you follow those guidelines, you’ll be amazed at what you can accomplish. And we’ll share plenty of stories, ideas, tips and resources to illustrate how you can become a great advocate.

Resources:

• EFMP & Me — Checklists such as: Advocating on Behalf of Your Child, Building a Support System, Organizing for Success, Getting Assistance, and What Is EFMP and How Can It Help?
• Special Care Organizational Records, or SCOR
• EFMP Family Support
• Education Directory for Children with Special Needs

Articles:

• Know the Laws That Protect Your Child With Special Needs
• Military Families: How You Can Advocate for Your Child With Special Needs
• Free Legal Support for Military Families With Special Needs
• Office of Special Needs Department of Defense Policies
• Parent Centers: Connecting Military Families to Resources

 MilLife Learning – Courses

• Advocacy Communication Tips
• What Is Advocacy
• Organization as an Advocacy Tool