My Life, My Rights!
We speak up for ourselves and what’s important to us. We have a voice of our own and use it. And we stand up for others that aren’t able to stand up for themselves
Artwork by: Eva Blakely, Your Voice is Your Power, Mixed Media
Vinfen empowers individuals one at a time. They have elevated the quality of my life immensely.
Geno
I’m always working on becoming a better self-advocate. The most important thing to me is making a real difference.
Chris
Your rights must be respected. With your presence and strength as a self-advocate you can move mountains.
Theresa
Megan’s Self-Advocacy Story
How We Make a Difference
- Submit artistic and literary pieces to Vinfen’s annual Celebration Event
- Create Human Rights teaching videos for staff and peers
- Influence staff trainings and co-teach classes
- Join Self-advocacy groups that impact agency policy and plans
- Partner with the Vinfen CEO and Board of Directors to effect important change
Helpful Resources
The Metro Boston Self-Advocacy Group
The Metro Boston Self-Advocacy Group is a group of self-advocates from Boston-area programs who come together to make their voices heard, support one another, and create positive change. Through advocacy, leadership development, education, civic engagement, and community partnerships, members work to promote independence, inclusion, and opportunities for self-advocates to influence the issues that matter most to them.
South Shore Self Advocacy Group
The South Shore Self-Advocacy Group is made up of a team of individuals supported by Vinfen in South Shore area DS and BI programs. The group meets monthly to strengthen the voice of people served, influence policy and programs, and create positive change. They recently developed ‘A Guide to Respectful Treatment’ for staff and peers. The group is currently accepting new members.
Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP)
A plan to support and empower oneself in their recovery and wellness path.
Massachusetts Advocates Standing Strong (MASS)
Various groups, committees, task forces, that facilitate our members to advocate, develop leadership skills, and foster social connections.
The Compass Helpline at NAMI
Provides information, ideas, resources, and support to help people navigate the complex mental health system and related systems of care. Compass is staffed by people with first-hand experience navigating the mental health system for themselves or a family member.
Self-Advocates Becoming Empowered (SABE)
A nationwide organization for self-advocates. People with lived experience come together to advocate and educate about the issues that are important to them.
The Massachusetts Behavioral Health Help Line (BHHL)
Connects you directly to clinical help, when and where you need it. Even if you’re not sure what kind of help or treatment you may need, we can help guide you.
Community Behavioral Health Centers
One-stop shops for a wide range of mental health and substance use services and treatment. The statewide network of CBHCs includes centers across Massachusetts that offer immediate, confidential care for mental health and substance use needs.
Crisis services are available around the clock for anyone in Massachusetts who feels they may be experiencing a mental health crisis. This 24/7 in-person crisis support can be used by anyone in Massachusetts, whether or not they have health insurance. CBHCs also offer day-to-day mental health and substance use services which are covered by all MassHealth plans and some commercial insurance plans.
Community Events, Activities, and Groups
Peer-Run Drop-in Centers
The Arc of Mass
Information on legislative advocacy, new laws and policy, and the state budget.
Social Resource for Discounted or Free Tickets
Provides free and reduced priced tickets to those in the Mental Health community whom may otherwise not be able to afford to purchase tickets on their own.
Join the Self-Advocacy community and make your voice heard. Whether you want to speak up for yourself, support others, or help create positive change, there’s a place for you here.
