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.

A Self-Advocate’s Guide To Breast Health

A plain language poster and booklet explaining breast health. What is breast cancer? How do I prevent breast cancer? What is a breast exam with a healthcare provider like? How can I do a breast self-exam? Click here to get…

What is the ADA?

These slides explain the Americans with Disabilities Act. There are discussion questions to understand the concepts connected to our everyday lives!

Person-Centered Planning Documents in Plain Language

Webinar #3 Person-Centered Planning Documents in Plain Language May 12, 2023, 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm Learn how to write and present person-centered planning information in an accessible way. We practiced translating typical planning information into plain language. Our goal is…

Plain Language Writing is a Skill

Webinar #2 Plain Language Writing is a Skill. Presented on April 14, 2023, by Green Mountain Self-Advocates. These slides are based on a presentation created by the Autistic Self Advocacy Network and used with permission. This webinar explains how to…

Basic Principles for Creating Accessible Information

Webinar #1 Basic Principles for Creating Accessible Information Presented on March 24, 2023, by Green Mountain Self-Advocates. These slides are based on a presentation created by the Autistic Self Advocacy Network and used with permission. This webinar explains cognitive accessibility…

What is Leadership?

Leadership is about what we do. It’s not about the role we are in.  For example, our groups have presidents and chairs. Leadership is not about your title but really about what actions you take when you are in that…

Advocate Voice: A Podcast Blog by Max Barrows and Hasan Ko

Join Max Barrows and Hasan Ko from Green Mountain Self Advocates as they discuss how state leaders, service providers, and others can help ensure advocates have a seat at the policy table.  Max and Hasan share valuable lessons on how…

Youth Ambassadors

Youth Ambassadors are young people with disabilities helping peers get the support they need to make decisions. These choices might be about where to work, how to spend money, or when to go to a doctor. We all need help…

How to Be a Beautiful Teenager by Isabella Carrera-Skorsfad

Isabella (Bella) Carrera-Skorsfad is a Youth Ambassador working with Green Mountain Self-Advocates. Bella completed a class teaching youth about their rights and how to make decisions for themselves. Youth Ambassadors study with The Center on Youth Voice, Youth Choice a national…

How We All Make Choices

Hasan Ko is a Youth Ambassador working for Green Mountain Self-Advocates. He is part of a Vermont team teaching people about supported decision making and ways to avoid guardianship. He completed a training program teaching youth about their rights and…