My Life, My Rights!
Empowering people supported by and contributing to Vinfen to speak up, be heard, and stand strong for themselves and others.
Self-advocacy is about recognizing your own voice and using it with confidence. At Vinfen, we believe every person has the right to express what matters most in their life—whether it’s their goals, needs, or choices. The Self-Advocacy community is made up of individuals supported by and contributing to Vinfen who are committed to speaking up for themselves and supporting others who may not yet be able to do so. Together, we build confidence, promote independence, and create a culture where every voice is valued and respected.
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
A Self-Advocacy Story
How We Make a Difference
- Submit artistic and literary pieces to Vinfen’s annual Celebration Event
- Create teaching materials for our 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
- PRD
- PRD
- PRD
Helpful Resources
The Metro Boston Self-Advocacy Group
A peer-run community in the Metro Boston Area for people who have been impacted by trauma, oppression, discrimination, addiction, mental health struggles, extreme emotional states, psychiatric diagnoses, and encountered other challenges. We seek to offer non-clinical, mutual peer-to-peer support in an inclusive and trauma-informed environment.
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. Connect with us, share your perspective, and be part of a community that listens, empowers, and takes action—together.
