At Venture Together, self-advocacy is a cornerstone of our mission to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) in living independent, empowered, and extraordinary lives.
With that guiding principle, we proudly support and uplift our Self-Advocacy Council, a group of dedicated individuals who help guide and inspire others to speak up, understand their rights, and advocate for themselves.
A Space to Learn, Grow, and Be Heard
Led by our Self-Advocacy Council President Lee Portugal, and supported by board members including Jennifer Aiello and Michael Garkowski, the Council’s Town Halls allow individuals to come together to learn about their rights, share their experiences, and gain the skills needed to advocate for themselves in their personal lives, communities, and beyond.
As Michael Garkowski shares, the Council is a “group of people who speak up for themselves,” and he takes pride in “helping others learn to speak up.” He encourages others to start by listening and learning:
"Try to just listen and take the good advice you hear. Hopefully, one day you will be comfortable enough to speak up.” - Michael Garkowski
Jennifer Aiello highlights the importance of participation and shared ideas:
“It’s a great meeting, and you should speak up. It’s nice to hear what others are doing.” - Jennifer Aiello
Town Halls also provide opportunities to learn about upcoming events, support meaningful causes, and connect with others.
Turning Voice into Action
For some, self-advocacy is not just about speaking, but about creating change. Whether it’s asking for more independence, exploring new opportunities, or standing up for themselves and their beliefs, every voice has the power to make an impact.
Lee encourages individuals to take that step, and is always happy to help:
“Always stand up for what’s fair and fight for your rights…I will always help you, no matter what.” - Lee Portugal
Through continued engagement, attending Town Halls, participating in community events, and supporting one another, self-advocates build the skills to lead in their own lives.
A Commitment to Empowerment
Self-advocacy is at the heart of independence. By providing tools, opportunities, and supportive spaces like our Town Halls, Venture Together is committed to helping individuals build confidence, find their voice, and create extraordinary lives.
Because when individuals are empowered to advocate for themselves, they don’t just change their own lives—they strengthen the entire community.
For anyone just starting their self-advocacy journey, the message from our Council is clear:
Speak up. Get involved. And know that your voice matters.
