The New Jersey Self-Advocacy Project

The 35th Annual New Jersey Statewide Self-Advocacy Network Fall Conference will take place on Saturday, September 29th at The Westin Princeton.

To get more information or register online, click here!

Looking to attend an NJSAP Event? Check out our Summer Calendar for self-advocacy events near you!

The New Jersey Self-Advocacy Project was established in 1983 in to challenge individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to become involved in events, legislative policies, and issues that positively affect their lives or lives of others with disabilities. Together we form The New Jersey Statewide Self-Advocacy Network (NJSSAN), which is used as means of supporting positive change on both a personal and social level. The NJSSAN consists of five Councils based on geographic location within the state.

The Councils meet on a monthly basis and are open and free to all individuals with disabilities. To see the location of each council and the date for our monthly meetings, please take a look at our calendar displayed below. The New Jersey Self-Advocacy Project Team collaborates with the Council chairperson to create an agenda based on what the self-advocates wish to discuss. These meetings are a chance for advocates to voice their perspective, socialize, and to practice standing up for themselves and their rights.

Self-Advocates testify in Trenton regarding budget decisions and legislation, and they also celebrate and raise awareness during Disability Awareness Month in March. They write letters to people of prominence and elected officials applauding decisions or weighing in on issues. Advocates give input on many of the Division of Developmental Disabilities policy issues that affect their lives. During Americans with Disabilities Awareness Month (ADA) in July, self - advocates speak with beach-goers on the Point Pleasant boardwalk about the importance and meaning of ADA. Finally, they come together as a network for an annual luncheon and conference.

During the year, self-advocates are invited to attend Healthy Lifestyles workshops, planning and leadership discussions, voting workshops, maintaining healthy relationship activities, workshops about advocating for your employment rights, and many other seminars and training, as requested by agencies and individuals.

2018 Council Calendars

The New Jersey Statewide Self-Advocacy Network (NJSSAN) is made up of 5 regional Councils. All adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities are welcome to attend NJSSAN Council meetings. We encourage and challenge group members to learn about their rights, get involved in advocacy events, and speak out about issues that affect their lives.

NJSAP Publications

The Self Advocate: A bi-annual newsletter produced the New Jersey Self Advocacy Project (NJSAP) team. The Self Advocate contains registration information for two major events hosted by the New Jersey Statewide Self Advocacy Network: the Fall Conference and the Spring Into Action Luncheon. The publication also contains information about monthly meetings, training and educational opportunities, as well as legislative advocacy efforts.

Advocacy Matters: A monthly e-newsletter geared to providing self - advocacy group advisors and network members with training tips and information about upcoming events, along with features of the most recent advocacy activities hosted by members of the New Jersey Statewide Self Advocacy Network, (NSSAN).

For further information, check out these helpful handouts!

Fall Conference Registration Form 2018 Registration Form for the 35th Annual Self-Advocacy Conference on September 29, 2018.	2018 Fall Conference Save the Date Basic information "Save the Date" flyer for the 35th Annual Self-Advocacy Conference on September 29, 2018.	Summer Event Calendar Listing of upcoming NJSAP events throughout the state for summer 2018.	NJSAAN Map and Contact Info New Jersey Statewide Self-Advocacy Network map. Shows which counties belong to each of the 5 Councils.	New to Working with Adults with I/DD? A helpful infographic with tips and reminders for those who are working with adults with IDD.
HLP Workbook A workbook containing information on various topics related to healthy living, as part of our Healthy Lifestyles Project.	NJ ABLE Account Factsheet A fact sheet explaining the basics of NJ ABLE Accounts.	NJSAP Brochure This New Jersey Self-Advocacy project brochure explains what our program is about and contains contact information.	Governmental Affairs Ambassador Program Workbook The workbook for our Governmental Affairs Ambassador Program.	Shred the R Word Initiative! Resources and pledge to stop the use of the "R" Word.