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Defining Self-Advocacy

Youth empowerment is helping youth and young adults take charge of their lives. The first step to self-advocacy is 'self,' which means that one needs to learn of their strengths, disability, needs, and wants. After learning about yourself then you can start to advocate or speak up for your necessary supports.  

Featuring…

Christopher (at the time of the video) is a 7th grader who speaks on his self-advocacy experiences. He states, "basically if you have a problem then tell the person that you need it fixed, don't stay quiet and wait for others to speak for you" He adds: "Self-advocacy is kind of like being your own advocate." His personal and simple testimony brings a fresh perspective. No matter what age you are, self-advocacy is a skill that should be taught, learned, and encouraged. Watch it here: https://youtu.be/FsbWB-UN6d0

For more information on self-advocacy and how to define and build it. The "Self-Advocacy: Tips for Teens" describes self-advocacy, how to practice it, and being prepared. And, both Christopher's story (mentioned above) and another valuable story are included in "Jacob's Self-Advocacy Video." Find it here: https://utahparentcenter.org/publications/infosheets/transadultinfosheets/tips-for-teens/

Announcement...

The SPAN Youth Chat will be on break on August 18th and 25th and returning on September 1st. All youth and young adults (past or present attendees) will receive an email with a poll. This poll will collect information on preferred times to host the youth chats for the upcoming Fall season. Thank you for your continuous support. 

What do you think about Christopher's story? When have you used self-advocacy to solve an issue? Let us know in the comments below. And connect with us in the comments. 

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Author 

Jeremy Hayer 

Resources...

The SPAN Youth Chat: The SPAN Youth Chat

Christopher's Story: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FsbWB-UN6d0&ab_channel=UtahParentCenter

Self-Advocacy: Tips for Teens: https://utahparentcenter.org/publications/infosheets/transadultinfosheets/tips-for-teens/

Subscribe to SPAN’s YouTube channel: SPAN Parent Advocacy Network

Link to SPAN’s website: www.spanadvocacy.org 

Link to SPAN’s Youth in the Know Resource Page: Youth in the Know

We’re here for you! Call SPAN if you need assistance: 1-800-654-7726


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