About Us
he Self-Advocates of Mecklenburg County (SAM) was established in 1998 by Laura Newell. Laura envisioned a group that would connect people with intellectual/developmental disabilities (I/DD) with each other and the community. SAM now serves people with I/DD as well as family members, support staff, and friends in Mecklenburg County.
Throughout the years, the group has advocated for rights of those with I/DD at the city, county and state levels, helping change laws that directly influence those we serve. In addition to advocacy, we also provide ongoing support to each other in a group setting and on an individual basis through regular meetings and social gatherings.
As we have grown and increased our involvement in the community, we are proud to announce that we are a project of InReach non-profit (501c3).
he Self-Advocates of Mecklenburg County (SAM) was established in 1998 by Laura Newell. Laura envisioned a group that would connect people with intellectual/developmental disabilities (I/DD) with each other and the community. SAM now serves people with I/DD as well as family members, support staff, and friends in Mecklenburg County.
Throughout the years, the group has advocated for rights of those with I/DD at the city, county and state levels, helping change laws that directly influence those we serve. In addition to advocacy, we also provide ongoing support to each other in a group setting and on an individual basis through regular meetings and social gatherings.
As we have grown and increased our involvement in the community, we are proud to announce that we are a project of InReach non-profit (501c3).
Our Mission
Our Vision |
We are a community of people with intellectual/developmental disabilities who are united by our personal experience. Our group promotes education, self-determination, and social engagement while advocating for our rights and the rights of others.
We envision that people with I/DD, parents, natural and paid supports, and the community will achieve empowerment, awareness, and understanding through the work we do. Meeting Notice Our next Self-Advocates of Meck meeting is August 29th at the InReach day support center 520 Clanton Rd. Suite A, Charlotte, N.C. 28217 Time: 6:00-7:30 p.m. We will have a special guest joining us virtually City Councilman Malcom Graham. Our meeting schedule for the rest of 2022 September 26 October 24 November 28 We do not meet in December but we will have a holiday party so check back for details about that later. |