We are pleased to publish our annual report for 2007 in the attached PDF. The following excerpt from the report, a letter from Robert Morse, President of the Board of Directors, and Paul Shew, Executive Director, provides a glimpse into the exciting things happening at The Advocacy Center. We encourage you to peruse the entire report to find out more!

Excerpted letter:

Dear Friends,

"I am LEARNING as I go along and I keep learning." These humble words were spoken by a parent named Obaida who sought support from The Advocacy Center to obtain appropriate educational services for her son. Her quest to improve her knowledge and her skills will make a difference for her child. This annual report features her story as well as several other stories of individuals who are seeking to learn more so that they can make a difference.

Tessa has worked hard to develop her self-advocacy skills so that she can speak up for herself and plan a life that she wants. Every day, Tessa is gaining more and more CONFIDENCE.  Kristina and Shirley participated in The Advocacy Center's project with St. John Fisher College to better prepare teachers to work effectively with families of children with disabilities. They learned the importance of COLLABORATION.  Jim Swart and his fellow Partners in Policymaking graduates worked for almost three years on legislation that requires people first  language in legal documents, publications and legislation. They learned the power of PERSISTENCE.

LEARNING. CONFIDENCE. COLLABORATION. PERSISTENCE. All of these strengths are necessary for someone to make a difference. In addition, they need knowledge and skills. That is where The Advocacy Center comes in. Our mission is to build the capacity of individuals with disabilities and their families to advocate for themselves, realize their personal goals, and make positive changes in their lives and in their communities. We have the privilege of working with people to develop their knowledge and skills so that they can create positive change.

Thank you for all that you do to support The Advocacy Center's mission.

We welcome all in our community who are inspired to support our efforts.

Robert P. Morse
President of the Board

Paul J. Shew
Executive Director