Individual Advocacy Group Sets a New Standard for Disability Support Services Through a Human-Centric Approach

Every person has the right to lead a meaningful life. For people with disabilities, this means living in and integrating with a community of their choice, forming genuine relationships, pursuing job opportunities, and being valued for their contributions. They have the right to live with dignity and respect, free from abuse, neglect, discrimination, or segregation. When they face injustice, it’s imperative to stand as agents of change, advocating for their rights and ensuring they receive the necessary support to thrive. The Individual Advocacy Group (IAG) epitomizes this role.  

The CARF-accredited boutique nonprofit empowers adults with disabilities, setting a standard in creating environments where individuals can lead fulfilling lives. What makes IAG unique is the individuals they support. They support those with intellectual disability and those with behavioral health diagnoses and those experiencing severe trauma. It provides a full spectrum of quality, customized, and outcome-focused support to guarantee that those with developmental, intellectual, emotional, behavioral, or neurological disabilities are cared for and are empowered to define and pursue their life goals.  

Since its establishment in 1995 by Dr. Charlene A. Bennett and Dr. David Brooks, IAG has delivered functional, person-centered services. Dr. Bennett is a renowned figure in disability rights and has advocated for justice and equality. Her dedication has given birth to impactful policy changes through the act of doing, transforming the lives of individuals with disabilities. 

Dr. Bennett has significantly shaped IAG’s person-centric approach to supporting individuals with disabilities. The impact of this unique approach can be seen in the story of an individual who had been institutionalized in Texas. “We brought them into our care and support because they were traumatized by being separated from their family and community. They were neglected, which led to behavioral changes. From being institutionalized, IAG returned them to their community of choice and, from there, helped them construct their customized life,” the CEO shares. This story shows that with the right support, individuals with disabilities can live fulfilling lives within their communities. 

The nonprofit takes this unique approach further. It encourages the people they aid to become self-advocates. Many from IAG’s support program now volunteer at shelters, nursing homes, and other community organizations, contributing meaningfully to society. Doing so challenges societal perceptions and empowers individuals with disabilities to be seen as contributors and not only recipients of care. “We reject the notion of pity and insist on treating everyone with equal dignity and respect. People with disabilities also have gifts to offer and responsibilities to uphold,” Dr. Bennett emphasizes.  

Meanwhile, it demonstrates its commitment to justice with a landmark lawsuit. The case, led by IAG, sought justice for three adult male residents in Springfield. They were at risk of losing their home due to the city’s spacing ordinance, which prohibited two homes for people with disabilities from operating within 600 feet of each other. The case’s successful outcome illustrates the organization’s dedication to fighting for the rights of people with disabilities.  

IAG’s philosophy guides every aspect of its efforts. The organization believes in every individual’s inherent potential. It recognizes that every individual has unique talents, aspirations, and challenges. Hence, its programs are meticulously tailored to meet these specific needs. 

The nonprofit’s programs cover advocacy and case management, community-based residential programs, life skills training, vocational support, job placement help, community integration, ongoing mentorship, and behavioral health support. For example, the IAG Speaker’s Bureau hires individuals supported by the organization to speak at various events, offering them a platform to share their experiences and advocate for community integration.  

It’s worth noting that IAG’s programs stand out for their community-based nature. This can be seen in the organization’s residential programs, which ensure individuals with disabilities live in environments that allow them to lease their homes from community landlords, giving them independence and a sense of belonging.  

“IAG has successfully partnered with landlords, state guardians, and community members to provide homes for all people at all levels of disability, including those with complex needs, to lease. Many believe that this is not possible.

However, we have been doing this successfully since 1999. This is due to our deep commitment and advocacy that all people have the right to lead fulfilling lives in the community,” the CEO supplies. IAG’s services and support extend to 21 counties in Illinois, from Chicago to the Quad Cities to Springfield, and the District of Columbia. 

IAG is also known for its methodology of building robust partnerships. It has partnered with educational institutions like Lewis University to open doors for job placements suited to each individual’s unique skills and capabilities. Moreover, it has collaborated with local businesses to help participants earn a livelihood and contribute positively to their workplaces, fostering a sense of dignity and belonging. 

Ultimately, the Individual Advocacy Group changes lives and sets a new standard for disability and support services. One of the many people the organization has helped shares, “I am grateful to live a free and abundant life thanks to them.” Another participant in its programs expresses their gratitude: “I am grateful for IAG. They have helped me during my toughest times. Dr. Bennett has a heart of gold. She believed in me, gave me a chance, and helped me make better choices. I am in such a better place thanks to the support I continue to receive from IAG.” 

Dr. Bennett concludes, “We’re champions of people’s rights. We advocate for the acceptance and integration of people with disabilities, and this is all part of our mission to support them in becoming active participants in society. When you take time to know a person, fears and prejudices dissipate. Building relationships is important, and it’s one of our core foundations—to create safe, meaningful connections that break down barriers.” 

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