Advocating for Change: Building a More Equitable Illinois Together
UCP Seguin continues to be a powerful and unwavering voice for people with disabilities and those who care for them—working tirelessly to advance equity, access, and opportunity across Illinois. Through both our direct advocacy efforts and our active leadership and participation in the They Deserve More (TDM) coalition, we are helping turn shared challenges into meaningful progress.
Amplifying Voices Across Illinois
This spring, more than 230 advocates—including self-advocates, direct support professionals, families, and providers—gathered in Springfield for TDM Action Day. Together, they raised awareness, shared personal stories, and called on lawmakers to prioritize essential funding and support. Senators Seth Lewis and Meg Loughran Cappel along with Representatives Lindsey LaPointe, Nicole La Ha, and Laura Faver Diaz welcomed the crowd during Kickoff.
Even beyond those present, supporters statewide joined in—contacting legislators and using social media to amplify the message. This collective effort demonstrates the growing momentum behind a unified call for change.
Driving Progress Through Policy
Our advocacy doesn’t stop at rallies. UCP Seguin leaders and partners have met with numerous state legislators to advance key priorities—most notably, strengthening the workforce through increased wages for direct support professionals.
These efforts have contributed to tangible progress, including newly approved funding for wage increases and other system improvements. While important work remains, these wins represent meaningful steps toward a more sustainable and equitable system of care.
Protecting Critical Supports
At the federal level, we remain vigilant in monitoring policies that affect daily life for those we serve—particularly Medicaid, Social Security, and SNAP benefits.
When disruptions occur, our team takes action. Recently, we have advocated to help restore or stabilize SNAP benefits for individuals experiencing reductions, ensuring they maintain access to the resources they rely on.
Advocacy Is Year-Round
Advocacy is not a one-day event—it’s an ongoing commitment. Throughout the summer, UCP Seguin continues to engage elected officials by inviting them to visit our programs, meet participants, and hear firsthand the stories that shape policy decisions.
These connections are critical. They ensure that when decisions are made, they reflect the real needs and experiences of people with disabilities and the professionals who support them.
Building a Future Without Limits
Together, through persistence, partnership, and the collective power of the They Deserve More coalition, UCP Seguin is helping to create a more equitable Illinois—one where people with disabilities have the opportunity to thrive.
Every conversation, every meeting, and every voice raised brings us closer to our vision of a life without limits.
