Contact: Mitch Leff, Leff & Associates, (404) 861-4769, mitch@leffassociates.com

August 18: Disability Advocates to Learn Key Skills At “Advocacy Basic Training” in Lawrenceville

All About Developmental Disabilities Providing Tools for Georgians to Influence Change for Family Members and Neighbors with Developmental Disabilities

When: Tuesday, August 18, 2015, 6 p.m. - 8 p.m.

Where: Gwinnett County Justice and Administration Center, 79 Langley Drive, Lawrenceville, GA 30045

What: All About Developmental Disabilities (AADD) will hold an Advocacy Basic Training to provide the tools to effectively influence change and make a difference for persons with developmental disabilities in Georgia.

Through its Advocacy Basic Training program, AADD provides attendees with the information and skills to influence change in services, community and policy.

AADD’s Advocacy Basic Training will help attendees learn to:

• Frame issues and communicate their messages and needs effectively

• Obtain the services they need

• Seek public support for individual services and community initiatives

• Lobby at the Capitol and work with their representatives

• Feel confident when asking for services

Cost: Free

RSVP and Contact: www.aadd.org or (404) 881-9777.

AADD has helped train thousands of families to advocate for their loved ones and members of their community. AADD serves families in Gwinnett County, Rockdale County, Fulton County, Dekalb County and Clayton County.

Basic Advocacy Training takes place in the five counties supported by AADD. Please visit www.aadd.org for more information on the Lawrenceville (Gwinnett) session or to find a session near you.

Developmental disabilities are defined as severe chronic disabilities that limit three or more critical functional abilities. Examples include Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, spina bifida, autism disorders, fetal alcohol disorders and intellectual disabilities.  These disabilities often manifest early in life (before age 22) and last a lifetime.

About All About Developmental Disabilities

Founded in 1956, All About Developmental Disabilities (AADD) is an Atlanta-based non-profit organization dedicated to creating lifelong support, education and opportunities for children, adults and families living with developmental disabilities.  AADD provides support services, advocacy and training to families living with developmental disabilities.

Georgia relies on an antiquated system of services and support that cannot be sustained long-term.  Economic uncertainties are reducing funding support, even as the number of people in need increases.  AADD offers a range of services focusing on Family Support, Public Policy and Advocacy and Community Engagement.  For more information, go to www.AADD.org or call us at (404) 881-9777.

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