ADAPT recognizes the importance of Self-Advocacy, which is the act of speaking up for oneself and one’s interests. It is used as a name for civil rights movements and mutual aid networks for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. ADAPT has three full-time Self-Advocacy Specialists who educate the people we support on their rights and empower them to exercise them. Topics include voting, transportation accessibility, benefits and entitlements, reasonable accommodations and more.

ADAPT Self-Advocates are actively involved in statewide efforts along with Self-Advocacy of New York State. Several ADAPT Self-Advocates have been SANYS Board Members. Others attend local and regional meetings and Conferences.