Resource Library

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GMSA is a strong organization because it is run by and for self-advocates. We have created resources and training materials that should only be presented by people with developmental disabilities. We encourage staff, teachers, parents, and allies to support self-advocates in teaching this material. However, our resources and trainings cannot be presented or used without self-advocates leading the way. If you have questions, contact us! We are happy to help you learn how to support people with developmental disabilities to use these resources.

There are 2 ways to find information:

  1. Type a topic in the search bar below

  2. Or click on one of the Resource Topics on the right-hand side.

Know Your Rights: When You Talk to ICE

Know Your Rights When Talking to ICE Everyone in the United States has rights. This is true no matter your immigration status. You have the right to stay silent. You do not have to answer questions about where you were…

Talking to the News: How to Share Your Story

The resource is on how self-advocates can effectively engage with the media to share their stories and advocate for disability rights. It provides tips on contacting reporters, preparing for interviews, and using pivot responses to stay on message. It emphasizes…

Mental Health and Stress

This resource focuses on mental health and stress, and how people can understand and manage strong feelings. It explains what stress is, how it can affect our bodies and minds, and why it is important to take care of our…

People with Disabilities in Movies, TV and Video

This presentation looks at how people with disabilities are shown in the media, like TV, movies, and news. It talks about common stereotypes and how these can lead to wrong ideas about disability. The slides also share why it is…

Employment and Benefits

This resource explains how work and benefits can fit together for people with disabilities. It helps people understand that they can work and earn money without losing all of their benefits right away. The slides explain common worries about losing…

What is Bullying?

• Bullying is when someone hurts you on purpose. • Anyone can be bullied. • People are often bullied because they are different from other people. • It can happen more than one time. • It can hurt your body,…

What is Autism?

Autism is a developmental disability.  It affects how we think, feel, communicate, and experience the world. Autism is a natural part of being human. Autistic people are important members of our communities.

Lived Experience

If you haven’t heard someone use the phrase ‘lived experience’ before, it means our experience of having a disability and talking about how we live–from our work to our personal lives.

How to Deal with Tough Emotions

Do people with intellectual disabilities have the right to feel and show emotions just like everyone else? Yes—of course we do! But sometimes, people try to stop us from experiencing real life. They might try to “protect” us by hiding…

Setting Boundaries At Work

Having good boundaries at work means respecting other people’s space and time and speaking up if someone is not respecting yours. Some of the slides used were adapted from activities from the curriculum, Building Healthy Relationships at Work. We highly recommend this…