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Learn & Advocate

Advance Your Advocacy Skills

Everyone deserves to be included, heard, and valued in their community. At TCDD, we offer ways for people with developmental disabilities, their families, and their support networks to build knowledge, grow their leadership skills, and create real change. 

Through our learning opportunities and advocacy resources, you can explore disability topics, strengthen your voice, and take action on issues that matter to you. Whether you are just beginning your advocacy journey or looking to deepen your impact, TCDD offers tools, training, and connections to help you move from learning to action.

Two people pose together in a theater-style auditorium. One person holds a white tote bag with colorful tissue paper and a pink heart design that reads “Ableism Makes Me Barf.” Rows of red seats and attendees are visible in the background.
Two people pose together in a hallway outside the House of Representatives chamber in the Texas Capitol Building. One person wears a light gray checkered suit, while the other wears a black jacket and cap and holds printed materials.
Five people stand together on a football field at sunset. The person in the center wears a Las Vegas Raiders shirt, sunglasses, and a medal, while others stand close by. One person holds a dark blue folder labeled “Texas Senate.” Stadium lights and bleachers are visible in the background.
Three women posing closely for a selfie inside an office space, with one is wearing a floral blazer and another is wearing a name badge.
A large group of people posing together on the floor of the Texas House legislative chamber. Some people are holding certificates. Flags, portraits, and a digital display board visible in the background.

Getting Started

Whether you’re new to disability advocacy and unsure how to begin, or you’re already an experienced advocate exploring your next steps, TCDD can support you. To find information and opportunities that match your goals, choose which option best describes you.

Explore TCDD’s tools and resources at your own pace:

  • TCDD Learning Center: An online learning portal offering self-paced courses on key topics like advocacy, leadership, health care, and emergency preparedness. Courses include practical trainings on public speaking, social media advocacy, and leadership development. Training Sprints can help you build skills quickly and apply them in real-world settings.
      
  • Resources: TCDD provides an extensive library of trusted tools, guides, and information to support people with developmental disabilities, their families, and allies across areas like education, employment, community living, and rights.
      
  • Instagram Content: Follow TCDD on Instagram for accessible, bite-sized content like DD 101 basics, advocacy tips, and timely updates to help you stay informed and engaged.

Take a deeper dive into advocacy through structured programs and training opportunities:

  • Texas Partners in Policymaking: A statewide leadership development program that prepares self-advocates and family members to become effective advocates for policy change and systems reform.
      
  • Training Sprints: Our Training Sprints help self-advocates, family members, and community allies quickly build and practice advocacy skills through self-paced learning, support, and experiential activities. The Sprints also provide practical resources to use beyond the training. Learn more at the TCDD Learning Center.

Build relationships, learn from others, and get involved in your local community.

  • Connect with your Disability Community Coordinator: Coordinators serve as TCDD’s on-the-ground connection across Texas. They provide local resources, training, and opportunities while helping people and families navigate services and connect with advocacy networks.
      
  • Prepare for a leadership position: The Seek, Secure, and Serve Training Sprint offers a roadmap for obtaining leadership roles and serving in spaces where decisions are made.
      
  • Connect with partner organizations: TCDD works alongside partners across Texas. To expand your network, explore organizations such as the Coalition of Texans with Disabilities, The Arc of Texas, and Texas Advocates, all of which provide advocacy, training, and community engagement opportunities.
      
  • Connect with funded projects: TCDD awards grant funding to support projects across Texas that advance inclusion and improve systems for people with disabilities. Visit the Funded Projects section of our website to learn what’s happening near you.

Make your voice heard in public policy and connect with opportunities to influence change:

  • Legislative Advocacy Resources: Tools and tips to help you communicate effectively with legislators, share your story, and advocate for issues that matter to you.
      
  • Texas Legislative Updates: Stay informed with regular updates on legislation, policy developments, and issues affecting Texans with developmental disabilities.
      
  • Voting resources: Access information to help you understand your voting rights, prepare to vote, and participate in elections as a critical part of civic engagement and advocacy.

Go to the TCDD Learning Center

Connect With An Advocacy Advisor

Latest Advocacy Updates

Success Stories, News, and Advocacy Opportunities

Explore Our Resources

We have information and tools to support people with DD, family members, professionals, and anyone looking to learn more. Our resources include fact sheets, videos, trainings, and resource directories that you can browse at your own pace. These resources cover topics such as understanding developmental disabilities, preparing for emergencies, exploring employment options, supporting health and wellness, building skills, and learning about personal and civil rights.