Part of S.T.E.P.'s Strategic Plan is a commitment to long-term stability. We realize long-term stability encompasses much more than just our finances. We have learned that grassroots advocacy builds relationships with local and state government, valuable organizations and our community at large. These relationships contribute to the overall success of STEP so we pledge to cultivate and care for these connections faithfully.
- Budget Proposal Action Plan for Families (PDF, 720 KB) - How will you cope with 20% fewer services? What if the services you use most were eliminated completely?
Families pioneered California’s service delivery system; now is the time for families to try and save it.
- Budget Talking Points for Service Providers (PDF, 350 KB) - The Governor’s 2011-12 Budget
Will Topple Our Service Delivery System!
- LAO Overview of the Governor's Proposed Budget (PDF, 535 KB) - Get the Legislative Analyst's Office's responses to this budget proposal.
CSLN Grassroots Toolkit (PDF, 3.7 MB) - Adapted from the CRA Grassroots Manual by CSLN, this is your grassroots guide to government action. Use this tool when you have something to say to an elected official. Remember, you make a difference only if you participate in the process!
- State Auditor Report Raises Troubling Questions About California’s $3.4 (B) Program for Developmentally Disabled (PDF, 2.5MB)
CSLN urges Legislators to Require More Transparency and Stricter State Oversight
“This audit documents the worst possible outcome for taxpayers, families and Californians with developmental disabilities. States auditors highlighted numerous instances of apparent ’favoritism‘ and ’fiscal irresponsibility‘ within California’s service delivery system, resulting in dysfunctional procedures that unfairly reduce services to California’s 240,000 residents with developmental disabilities.
“Even more disturbing, the report found that more-than-half of the Regional Center employees are afraid to speak up when they see improper activities or abuses. That fear fosters a dangerous culture in a system that is responsible for administering critically needed services for Californians with disabilities."
- California Legislature and current bills
- State Senate and current legislation
- State Assembly and current legislation
- CDCAN Reports - Alerts, Town Hall Telemeetings, Web site and other work
- CDSA: California Disability Services Association
- California Supported Living Network is a statewide organization of people and agencies committed to the belief that every Californian with a developmental disability can live in his or her own home if provided the supports and services needed to be safe and successful.
- FFAC (Family and Friend Advisory Committee):
The FFAC is a group of family members and friends of people receiving STEP services interested in contributing as a stakeholder. The FFAC may be asked to advise STEP of family perspective on activities, policy, procedures, strategies and programs. The FFAC engages in philosophical discussions resulting in mutual education. The Regional Center is a frequent topic of discussion. Participation in the FFAC is an opportunity for networking, support and information sharing. The FFAC is often called upon to provide a family perspective to legislators and the general community. One of the goals of the FFAC is to develop a new family orientation and materials for families new to STEP services. The FFAC is available to answer questions for family members researching STEP as a possibility for their family member. The FFAC meets quarterly at the STEP office in Carmichael.