People with disabilities have been in the forefront of advancing self-determination services and policies. This article discusses the involvement of individuals in person-directed services and the roles of individual leaders with disabilities and disability organizations led by people with disabilities in shaping policies and systems. Findings from 3 surveys of the involvement of individuals with disabilities in disability organizations and agencies are presented. Cross-disability principles for self-determination and recommendations for promoting disability leadership are discussed. Advancing leadership requires supporting the development of individual leaders with disabilities, building the capacities of organizations led by people with disabilities, and encouraging cross-disability partnerships.

Advocacy for people with disabilities and their fami lies has evolved from the provision of public protective services to private and independent advocacy service groups, and finally to self-advocacy. This article de scribes one empowerment and self-advocacy training program for parents of young children and individuals with disabilities. An overview of the Partners in Policy making program and the participants is provided along with Year 1 outcomes. The benefits of self-advocacy and the need for additional training programs are stressed.

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