This module is designed to give people the basics about what it means to be a self-advocate. They talk about how to advocate for yourself and what to expect in the process. The module talks about self advocacy as a movement and how to effectively advocate for system change and equality.

The ISP Modules have information and tips for individuals about how to run your own ISP. It also has information on how to make choices that benefit you and how to voice your concerns. The module has self help tips on how to create an ISP that reflects your real needs. Several activities help engage the audience and give a better understanding of how an ISP should be self directed.

The “Marriage without Penalties” module focuses on what happens to individuals’ social security benefits when they get married.  The treatment of marriage with regard to SSI benefits produces unfavorable consequences for people who are married. The module presents ideas on solving the problem and some alternatives.  It includes a videotape of a couple from Las Cruces who tell their personal story.  The module is a model for how to get involved and advocate for change.  Creating change, whether on the personal level, organizational level, or on a systems level, is at the heart of self-advocacy.  This module is about building the foundation for strong self-advocacy on all levels.  Participants will emerge from this learning experience with new skills, strategies, and bolder dreams.

This workshop was developed from the handbook put together by the Harvard Project on Disability. It touches on respect for individuals with disabilities, inclusion in the community, and then change in the society. It also goes into assertive communication and speaking up with power.

A module on the voting process was also recently developed at The Center. It explores everything from registering to vote all the way to what to expect at the polls. It emphasizes the importance of making an informed decision and researching the candidates and the issues that are important to individuals with disabilities. This is a great workshop for first time voters.p>

This module was developed to teach self advocates and advocates a little about the legislative process. In addition and most importantly, it teaches the proper protocol for testifying at a hearing and speaking to your legislators in a personal meeting. There is ample opportunity to practice and gain self confidence. 

This module is designed to encourage leadership. It has information that helps individuals understand what a leader is and what a leader does. Includes tips and activities that encourage community leadership

Learn what skills are necessary to sit on a board or committee. Many self-advocates have been asked to participate in community programs once they have developed leadership skill.

This is a series of modules developed from the ACT (Advocating Change Together) resource “Tools for Change.” It should be noted that each of these modules can be presented as a series or independently. The first module is “Know Your Rights,” and walks the self advocates through a few of the most important laws that affect individuals with disabilities. Section 504, IDEA, and ADA are presented in an interactive learning style. There are a few activities in this presentation that give the audience a chance to work together and even get out into the community to see first hand how these laws have changed things in the society we live. The next module in the series, “Changing Attitudes,” includes a brief summary of the history individuals with disabilities have had to endure. It moves into the “Moral, Medical, and Civil Rights Models” on disability. It talks about negative attitudes and typical stereotypes, and introduces the People First Movement. It offers a number of activities and some role playing to enhance the idea that individuals with disabilities are regular people and explores further how society must modify the way it operates. The third module, “Self Advocacy,” looks at assertive communication versus passive or aggressive. It explores body language and touches on feelings and how they can affect the way one advocates. “Dignity of Risk” and “Self-Determination” are introduced and then a recipe for success is presented in an easy to understand activity. Lastly, “Leadership” is an introduction on what it takes to be a leader. It introduces Ed Roberts as a powerful leader for individuals with disabilities. There is a short review and summary of the other modules, a list of the qualities of a leader, and an outline and activity for getting results when you make plans and take action for change. Included within the workshops are power point presentations, a number of activities and games, and several movies throughout the entire series.

This module is specifically designed for middle school children to introduce them to self advocacy. They will learn about their rights and resources by playing games and d oing some role playing around self advocacy.

This module focuses on high school students to get them thinking about their rights, options and resources regarding disability rights and self determination. Interactive games are a part of this presentation.

The employment module is designed for self-advocates interested in finding a job.  It includes information about the various places and approaches one can use to find a job (i.e. newspaper, internet, career fairs, etc.)  There is an interactive activity on how to look in the paper for a job.  The module also discusses how to fill out an application, how to prepare for an interview, what to wear to an interview, and what to expect in an interview.  There is a role playing activity regarding the interview process.  A power point presentation, handouts, and interactive activities accompany this module.

The Employer Awareness Module is designed for potential employers of people with disabilities.  It offers specific information on orienting new employees to the workplace, making a job manageable, and building positive relationships in the workplace, seeking help, and benefits to employers.  The module includes a presenter’s script, power point presentation, and handouts.

This module is created to help individuals who may be experiencing problems on the job. It talks about different problems that you might face when working and what you can do about it. It also talks about what your rights are and also addresses what sexual harassment is.

Transferrable skills was developed to help individuals identify potential jobs. It teaches the difference between skills and aptitudes and also mentions getting help finding a job by vocational testing. It provides a list of resources and a number of activities.

The DD Waiver and other Funding Sources Module includes brochures for each funding source that articulate how to qualify, what to expect, what you need to sign up, how long can you expect to wait, how to stay qualified, what the service offers, and who you can contact for more information.  The advocates and graduate students produced a “monopoly type” game about the DD Waiver.  The game board depicts different scenarios that could happen while applying for and receiving services.

Are you wondering if Mi Via is right for you? This training module gives you an overview of what to expect from the Mi Via program and how it works.

This module provides you with pertinent information about where to find resources pertaining to employment, transportation and assistive technology.

There is much to learn about eligibility, resources, and additional income in order to get and keep your SSI. This module gives information about all the benefits and rules of SSI.

This module reviews what types of services are available to people with disabilities at colleges across the state. The module is designed to give the participant basic information about the ADA and education. There are handouts with information about contacts at many schools across the state. 

What you need to know to prepare for and get into college. Learn what resources are available and what programs of study to pursue.

The Housing Module gives individuals different options and programs that they can use when wanting to purchase their own homes. The module discusses different programs that are available to assist individuals through the process. The advocates give the people to contact for each program and give tips on how to talk to them.   

Learn about the Center for self advocacy, disability awareness and other related issues. This presentation is a good informational presentation for students and employers designed to raise awareness about people with abilities.

Community safety looks at the differences between friends, acquaintances, and strangers. It explores safety when walking, using public transportation, and increasing awareness when out in the community.

A review of internet sites and tips designed to teach internet safety to novice users and experts as well. This is a good class for school children and young adults.p>

The transportation module discusses four different types of transportation available to people with disabilities and how to qualify and get enrolled.  A mailer is being produced with specific strategies and tips on making the transportation experience a successful one. The advocates developed a brochure that includes information on advocate rights in terms of transportation (i.e. who to call if there are problems, etc).  There is also a script for people to use when setting an appointment with a transportation company.  The module has suggestions for how to partner with transportation companies in order to get excellent service.  This module includes role playing activities and handouts.

This module gives a brief introduction to making healthy food choices, and makes physical activities easy and fun. It has simple snack and meal ideas, and looks at working out and including family and friends.

Money management talks about what a budget includes and why people should budget their money. It looks at healthy spending and gives some tips for saving money. Comparison shopping and making a grocery list are also included.

The Dating Game is part of a new project at the Center with the goal of helping self advocates learn about relationships and dating ina fun and safe environment. The seven interactive workshops will be coupled with social mixing activities geared toward encouraging self advocates to practice their skills.

This interactive workshop teaches good listening, talking and other communication skills including paying attention to non verbal communication and looking at the whole picture.

This workshop explores places to meet people and ways to get conversations started in appropriate ways. Self advocates practice in various settings and are encouraged to be creative.

Now you've met someone, learn how to get to know them better in this interactive workshop with lots of role playing and practicing. The workshop teaches additional communication strategies and ideas of safe activities to do while getting to know someone better.

Are you ready to take the next step? Find out in this workshop. Learn tips on dating including appropriate and inappropriate behavior and what to expect and what should not happen on dates.

Learn what are deal makers and deal breakers in deciding whether someone is right for you. More role playing and things to watch out for.

Sometimes relationships don't work out for many reasons. How do you cope with having a break up? Things you should not put up with in a relationship such as disrespect, and violence. Learn how to handle these issues in a healthy and positive way.

Now the big one! Are you and your partner ready for sex? Safe sex. Birth control. This workshop is designed to help self advocates approach sex in a healthy responsible and safe way. We do not go into the details of sexual intercourse.