New York Statewide Systems Advocacy Network
What is the New York Statewide Systems Advocacy Network?
The New York Statewide Systems Advocacy Network (SSAN) is a project that was originally prioritized in the New York Statewide Plan for Independent Living (SPIL) for 2002-2004. The SPIL plans are created every three years by the New York State Independent Living Council to enable the state to accomplish independent living objectives. Each SPIL plan is submitted to the federal Administration on Community Living (ACL) for approval.
Purpose
The Statewide Systems Advocacy Network (SSAN) is made up of hundreds of individuals across New York State working together to improve the quality of life for individuals with disabilities. The SSAN employs a variety of strategies and methods designed to achieve a barrier free, fully inclusive society for everyone, especially individuals with disabilities.
The SSAN consists of a group of volunteers who stand “at the ready” whenever their help is needed. Usually assistance is requested to support or oppose a piece of legislation or a local issue that will impact the lives of individuals with disabilities. When this happens, the network is asked to respond in one or more of a variety of ways such as:
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Contact legislators by phone, fax, and/or email
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Write a letter to the editor in support of or opposition to a legislative issue
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Provide oral and/or written testimony on a given topic
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Participate in voter registration drives, voter pledge drives, and/or get out the vote campaigns
For questions regarding SSAN, call RCAL at 845-331-0541.
Resources