About

The Advocacy and Building Community (ABC) Program is for young adults (ages 18-25) with intellectual and developmental disabilities who want to learn more about themselves, work with others, and explore the outdoors virtually or in-person!  

This group of young people meets throughout the year to develop independence, self-determination, and leadership in the community. Together, the group decides how they want to benefit their community through various service-learning projects. This program gives participants the opportunity to learn about advocacy and knowing your rights. 

The goal of our program is to help young adults gain independence and leadership skills that can be valuable in future employment, school, internships, or volunteer opportunities. 

The 2021-2022 Advocacy and Building Community Program will be held online with options for in-person activities if COVID-19 restrictions are lifted. 

2020-2021 program calendar

A year of online monthly group activities, outdoor adventures and service-learning projects. Young adults must commit to attending the following events throughout the year:

• April 13 & 15, 2021: Program Orientation 
• May 13: Online Meeting 1 
• June 23: Service-Learning Trip 1 
• July 15: Online Meeting 2 
• August 17, 18, 19: Camping Trip 
• September 16: Online Meeting 3 
• October 23: Service-Learning Trip 2 
• November 18th: Online Meeting 4 
• December 16th: Online Meeting 5 
• January 15, 2022: Winter Trip 
• February 17: Online Meeting 6 
• March 18: Graduation Party 

Program cost

$250 for the year-long program 

Families with financial barriers are encouraged to contact the University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (UCEDD) to discuss options. Find contact info at the top right corner of this page.