Advocacy resources encompass a wide range of tools and information that support the limb loss and limb difference community in advocating for a cause. We provide information about how to contact your legislators and provide talking points and fact sheets below on a variety of the Amputee Coalition’s priorities.

What is Advocacy? 

Advocacy is how we make change happen. Your voice matters. You’re an expert on living with limb loss or limb difference. We empower you with the skills to tell your story and the know-how about the latest policy issues to make a difference for yourself and millions of people living with limb loss and limb difference.

Advocacy can take various forms, including:

Meeting with Legislators: Providing information and educating lawmakers on the laws and policies that impact the limb loss and limb difference community.

• Look Up Your Lawmaker to find your state and federal representatives.

Public Awareness Campaigns: Raising awareness among the public and policymakers about specific issues through media campaigns, grassroots organizing, and public events.

• Share and join the discussions on the Amputee Coalition’s Facebook page
• Share your videos, media coverage, or personal comments on the Amputee Coalition’s YouTube channel

Policy Research and Analysis: Conducting research to provide evidence-based information that supports a particular policy position or reform.

• Get involved with scientific research opportunities and play an important role in improving the lives of people who have limb loss or limb difference.

Coalition Building: Forming alliances and partnerships with like-minded organizations and individuals to amplify the impact of advocacy efforts.

• Find like-minded individuals in the Advocacy Community on AC Connect.

Grassroots Mobilization: Encouraging and mobilizing ordinary citizens to advocate for a cause by contacting their representatives, participating in rallies, and engaging in other forms of activism.

• Get involved with the Amputee Coalition as an advocacy volunteer.

Advocacy Fact Sheets 

• About the Amputee Coalition 
• Limb Loss in the U.S. Facts and Figures 
• About the National Limb Loss Resource Center 
• About the Triple A Study Act (S.1089/H.R.2461) 
• COVID-19 Disproportionately Affects Limb Loss and Limb Difference Community 
• Advocacy Letters to Policymakers 

Know Your Rights

Federal Resources

• Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS):
  • View Website
• Social Security Administration (SSA):
  • View Website
• Department of Veterans Affairs (VA):
  • View Website
• Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP) – U.S. Department of Labor:
  • View Website
• Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) – U.S. Department of Justice:
  • ADA Information Line: 800-514-0301 (voice) or 800-514-0383 (TTY)
  • View Website
  • The American Disabilities Act of 1990
  • ADA Guide to Disability Rights Laws (2009)
    • Americans with Disabilities Act
    • Telecommunications Act
    • Fair Housing Act
    • Air Carrier Access Act
    • Voting Accessibility for the Elderly and Handicapped Act
    • National Voter Registration Act
    • Civil Rights of Institutionalized Persons Act
    • Individuals with Disabilities Education Act
    • Rehabilitation Act
    • Architectural Barriers Act
    • General Sources of Disability Rights Information
    • Statute Citations
• Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA) – U.S. Department of Education:
  • View Website
• National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research (NIDILRR):
  • View Website
• Disability.gov (now incorporated into USA.gov):
  • View Website
• Job Accommodation Network (JAN) – U.S. Department of Labor:
  • View Website
• Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (OSERS) – U.S. Department of Education:
  • View Website
  • Total and Permanent Disability (TPD) Discharge
  • Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act – Final Rules
• U.S. Department of Transportation
  • View Website
  • Accessibility
• Department of Justice
  • Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Disability: Accessibility of Web Information and Services of State and Local Governments (DOJ Document)
  • Amputee Coalition Advocacy Letter on Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Disability: Accessibility of Web Information and Services of State and Local Governments (DOJ Document)

Always verify the information and check for the latest updates on these websites. Additionally, consider reaching out directly to relevant agencies for personalized assistance and the most accurate information tailored to your specific needs.

State Resources 

State resources for the limb loss and limb difference community can vary widely, and it’s essential to check with your specific state’s government and local organizations for the most accurate and up-to-date information. Here are some general types of state-level resources you may want to explore:

Local Centers for Independent Living (CILs):

• Centers for Independent Living are community-based organizations that assist people with disabilities in living independently. They may offer various services and support.
• Find your local Center for Independent Living.

Disability Rights Organizations:

• These organizations focus on protecting and advocating for the rights of individuals with disabilities. They may provide legal assistance, information, and advocacy services.
• Find your state’s Protection and Advocacy program.

Department of Health and Human Services:

• Your state’s Department of Health and Human Services may offer programs, services, and information related to healthcare, rehabilitation, and disability support.
• Find your state’s Health Department.

Medicaid Programs:

• Medicaid programs at the state level may offer healthcare coverage and services for individuals with disabilities. Check with your state’s Medicaid office for specific details.
• Find your state’s Medicaid program.

Medicaid Waiver Programs:

• Some states offer Medicaid waiver programs that provide home and community-based services for individuals with disabilities, promoting independence and community integration.
• Find your state’s Medicaid Waiver programs.

Disability Services Agencies:

• Many states have agencies dedicated to providing services and support for individuals with disabilities. These agencies may offer information on healthcare, education, employment, and community resources.
• Find your state’s Disability Agency.

Vocational Rehabilitation Services:

• Many states have vocational rehabilitation services that assist individuals with disabilities, including those with limb loss or limb differences, in obtaining and maintaining employment.
• Find your state’s Vocational Rehabilitation program.

Rehabilitation Services:

• State rehabilitation services can provide assistance with vocational training, job placement, and other support services for individuals with disabilities.
• Find your state’s Workforce Agency.

Older Adult Services:

• Agencies on Aging are state departments that serve persons over 60 with transportation, support services, housing, elder rights resources, and many more.
• Find your state’s State Unit on Aging.

Assistive Technology Programs:

• State-level assistive technology programs can provide information and resources on adaptive devices and technologies that may be beneficial for individuals with limb loss or limb differences.
• Find your state’s Assistive Technology program.

To find specific resources in your state, consider visiting your state government’s official website or contacting local disability organizations. Additionally, reaching out to healthcare professionals, support groups, or rehabilitation centers in your area can help you connect with relevant resources.