Become an ADA Advocate
Help ensure individuals and families have equal access, accommodations, and fair participation under the law.
Helping Ensure Equal Access, Accommodations, and Fair Participation
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was enacted to help ensure that individuals with disabilities have equal access to public services, programs, and proceedings, including many court-related processes. These disabilities include PTSD, trauma, and English as a second language — circumstances that touch nearly everyone in family court.
Unfortunately, many individuals navigating family court, guardianship proceedings, child welfare cases, and other legal matters are unaware of the accommodations and protections that may be available to them under the law.
The Family First Coalition ADA Advocate Program is designed to educate and empower citizens who wish to assist individuals and families in understanding ADA accommodations, accessibility rights, communication supports, and available resources.
Whether you are a parent, grandparent, advocate, caregiver, retiree, veteran, student, or community volunteer, ADA advocacy can be a powerful way to support families navigating complex systems.
Why ADA Advocacy Matters
Many individuals involved in court proceedings face challenges that may affect their ability to fully participate in legal processes, including:
ADA Advocates help individuals understand available accommodations, locate resources, complete requests when appropriate, and ensure their concerns are properly communicated.
What You'll Learn
Our ADA Advocate Training Program will provide instruction on:
Training Leadership
Melinda Sherwyn
Veteran Court Watcher & Advocate
Training will be led by Melinda Sherwyn, a veteran court watcher and advocate with more than three decades of experience monitoring court proceedings and helping individuals navigate complex legal systems.
Learn More About the ADA
For information about the Americans with Disabilities Act and its protections, visit the official government resource:
Training Opportunities
Recorded Classes
Can't attend live? Recorded training sessions and educational materials are available through the American Made Education Center.
Access ADA Training →Become an ADA Advocate
By becoming an ADA Advocate, you can help ensure that individuals and families are aware of available accommodations, resources, and protections while navigating some of life's most challenging circumstances.
Together, we can help promote accessibility, dignity, fairness, and meaningful participation for all.
Sign Up to Become an ADA AdvocateQuestions? Contact Melinda Sherwyn — melinda@familyfirstcoalition.org