As we continue to enrich our Resource Hub with essential resources and support for mothers and birth givers, we’re also committed to highlighting resources that hold unique significance. In honor of National Disability Pride Month this July, we’re proud to share a thoughtfully curated list of advocacy organizations dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities. This collection spans local, state, national, and international levels—each offering vital services, support, and a shared commitment to equity and inclusion for the disability community.
Local Resources
To find local advocacy groups for people with disabilities, start by looking up your state’s official Protection and Advocacy (P&A) system, which offers legal assistance and advocacy services. For example, Disability Rights California is the P&A agency for that state. You can also contact your county’s social services department or housing and homelessness divisions, as they may offer or connect you to local disability-specific programs and resources.
State Resources
State Councils on Developmental Disabilities (Various States)
Federally funded state entities that identify local needs and advocate for public policy improvements to support individuals with developmental disabilities.
Website: acl.gov - State Councils
State Protection and Advocacy Systems (Various States)
These are state-level legal advocacy systems that protect the rights of individuals with disabilities, particularly in underserved communities.
Website: acl.gov - P&A Systems
National Resources
ADAPT
A national grassroots group using direct action to secure the civil rights of people with disabilities and promote independent living.
Website: adapt.org
American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD)
A national organization building political and economic power for people with disabilities, focusing on civil rights and civic engagement.
Website: aapd.com
The Arc (Local and State Chapters)
The Arc is a community-based organization dedicated to supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and their families. With hundreds of state and local chapters across the country, The Arc works from birth through every stage of life to promote full inclusion and participation in community life by providing a wide range of individualized services and supports, such as advocacy, residential and vocational programs, education services, person-centered planning, financial guidance, and recreational opportunities.
Website: thearc.org
Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities
The largest national coalition advocating for federal policies that support inclusion, empowerment, and independence for people with disabilities.
Website: c-c-d.org
Disability Rights Education and Defense Fund (DREDF)
A national civil rights organization that advances disability rights through legal action, education, and policy advocacy.
Website: dredf.org
Job Accommodation Network (JAN)
A national resource offering confidential advice on workplace accommodations and disability employment questions.
Website: askjan.org
Medicare Rights Center
Provides education, counseling, and advocacy to ensure people with disabilities and older adults have access to affordable Medicare coverage.
Website: medicarerights.org
National Council on Disability (NCD)
An independent federal agency that advises government leaders on policies and practices impacting Americans with disabilities.
Website: ncd.gov
National Council on Independent Living (NCIL)
A leading voice for independent living in the U.S., advocating for social change and legislative action through grassroots and consumer-led initiatives.
Website: ncil.org
National Disability Rights Network (NDRN)
The nation’s largest legal advocacy provider for people with disabilities, offering resources, fact sheets, and guidance on disability rights.
Website: ndrn.org
Rehabilitation International
A global organization working to promote the inclusion and rights of people with disabilities through advocacy and sustainable programs.
Website: riglobal.org
RespectAbility
A national disability-led nonprofit aiming to eliminate stigma and create policy changes that improve life opportunities for people with disabilities.
Website: respectability.org
TASH
A national nonprofit advocating for equity and inclusion for people with disabilities, especially those with significant support needs.
Website: tash.org
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services – Administration on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
This federal department funds and oversees state-level councils and advocacy systems that protect and support people with developmental disabilities.
Website: acl.gov
International Resources
United Nations – Disability Section
This UN branch advocates globally for the dignity and rights of persons with disabilities, sharing international updates, statistics, and resources on global inclusion efforts.
Website: un.org/disabilities
World Institute on Disability (WID)
An international organization based in the U.S. that develops tools, training, and policies to improve economic and social inclusion for people with disabilities.
Website: wid.org