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Legislative Advocacy

Use your voice to influence policies that impact children and families.

Advocating for Change Through Policy

Legislative advocacy at Vermont Family Network focuses on influencing laws, policies, and systems that affect children and youth, especially those with disabilities or special health needs, and their families. We believe families are experts in their own lives, and their voices are essential in shaping decisions that impact education, health, and community supports.

Through collaboration and strategic action, VFN helps elevate family experiences so decision-makers better understand what’s working, what’s not, and where change is needed. Our role is to provide information, connections, and opportunities that make advocacy more accessible and less intimidating.

How You Can Participate

There are many ways to engage in legislative advocacy, depending on your interests and comfort level:

  • Learn the basics of advocacy using VFN’s Legislative Advocacy Tip Sheet, which offers practical guidance on identifying issues, researching systems, collaborating with others, and communicating with decision-makers.
  • Participate in advocacy events, such as legislative meet-and-greets, advocacy days, and community forums.
  • Stay informed about key policy issues impacting families through advocacy updates and alerts.
  • Share your lived experience to help lawmakers understand the real-world impact of policies.

Our Advocacy Partners

VFN is an active member of statewide advocacy coalitions that work to advance systemic change:

  • Vermont Coalition for Disability Rights (VCDR) – A cross-disability advocacy organization focused on legislative and administrative change. VCDR empowers people with disabilities and families to directly participate in policy decisions and coordinates advocacy across member organizations.
  • Vermont Early Childhood Advocacy Alliance (VECAA) – A statewide coalition of parents, professionals, businesses, and partners working to support young children and families. VECAA provides advocacy training and supports Vermont’s annual Early Childhood Day at the Legislature.

Taking the Next Step

If you’re interested in legislative advocacy, there are several ways to get connected:

Related Links & Fact Sheets

The impact of our work is felt by families every day.

“Raising a child with a disability, particularly one that is often invisible, can be a lonely journey. Because Family Support staff all have personal experience raising a child with special needs, they are particularly well equipped to offer that perfect balance of listening and offering specific guidance and support. VFN has helped us not feel alone.“

– VFN Parent