Assistance in gaining equal access to services that individuals with disabilities are entitled to receive.

Advocacy is one of the five core services provided by all centers for independent living (CILs).  The Blue Ridge Independent Living Center (BRILC) works to involve consumers and others in systems advocacy to make facilities, services, and opportunities available and accessible to all individuals. To achieve these goals, BRILC works in partnership with other disability organizations and community members at the local, state and federal levels. Our goal is not to replicate existing services, but rather to advocate for an effective service delivery system that places the consumer in control of the services that meet his or her needs.

Independent Living Coordinators and other staff may assist consumers with individual advocacy issues such as accessing benefits, vocational rehabilitation, and other services. Consumers may be interested in advocacy assistance to obtain or maintain education, training, employment, or assistive devices.