Category Archives: News and Events
Local News: More than 60 Miami-Dade nonprofits rally against proposed budget cuts
By Chelsea Jones More than 60 Miami-Dade nonprofits rallied Tuesday outside the Stephen P. Clark Center, urging county leaders to reconsider proposed budget cuts they said would devastate families and put public safety at risk. Nonprofits say cuts threaten critical services Leaders said the funding is a lifeline. Losing it, they said, would… Read More »
“We All Belong”: Advocacy Network on Disabilities CEO Talks Inclusion on Miami Autism Dad Podcast
When Ire Diaz, President and CEO of the Advocacy Network on Disabilities, sat down with Miami Autism Dad host for a recent episode, the conversation quickly became more than just an overview of services. It became a deep dive into what true inclusion looks like in Miami-Dade County—and why advocacy remains as critical today… Read More »
Commissioners Take Action on Budget Cuts, But the Fight Isn’t Over
At last Thursday’s Miami-Dade County budget hearing, commissioners voted—nearly unanimously—to instruct the Mayor to identify resources to restore funding for Community-Based Organizations (CBOs). This came after more than 200 residents, including individuals with disabilities, families, and service providers, spoke for hours urging the commission to protect critical services. While this step shows that… Read More »
The Advocacy Network on Disabilities at the Florida Behavioral Health Conference 2025
This year, our team joined hundreds of professionals at the Florida Behavioral Health Conference 2025, held under the inspiring theme “One Mission.” The conference brought together leaders, providers, advocates, and community partners from across the behavioral health field—each with unique perspectives, yet all sharing the same commitment: changing lives. For us at the Advocacy… Read More »
Protecting Essential Services for People with Disabilities in Miami-Dade
Right now, critical support for people with developmental disabilities in our community is at risk. Miami-Dade County is considering removing $127,700 in funding that sustains vital services provided by the Advocacy Network on Disabilities. This funding supports a countywide program that allows people with developmental disabilities to live at home or independently — not… Read More »
This is Who we Are
In this heartfelt video, you’ll hear directly from the families we serve—families who have faced impossible choices and uncertain futures, but found hope through the Advocacy Network on Disabilities. Their stories are a powerful reminder of what’s at stake. We don’t just provide services—we create stability, dignity, and belonging. But now, our funding is… Read More »
Miami-Dade nonprofit faces financial crisis in wake of federal funding pause for food, shelter programs
By Chelsea Jones March 12, 2025 / 7:02 PM EDT / CBS Miami Watch news report here The Advocacy Network on Disabilities, which has been instrumental in supporting families in Miami-Dade County, has run out of money after vital federal funding from FEMA’s Emergency Food and Shelter Program (EFSP) was suspended. This delay in funding raises… Read More »
Daughter cannot walk or talk and has trouble swallowing. It took 17 years to find out why
We would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Marinetta Maria, affectionately known as Gigi, for her unwavering dedication and support in championing causes that make a difference in the lives of so many. Gigi’s tireless advocacy and compassionate spirit continue to inspire and uplift our community. Author: Syra Ortiz Blanes Images: Sophia… Read More »
We’re proud that our CEO is listed among the leaders working to build a stronger Miami. Our entire team works hard every day to make a stronger, more inclusive Miami.
We’re proud that our CEO is listed among the leaders working to build a stronger Miami. Our entire team works hard every day to make a stronger, more inclusive Miami.
Reflecting on Ignite! BHCon2024: The Advocacy Network on Disabilities Reignites Passion for Change
As the dust settles on Ignite! BHCon2024, the Florida Behavioral Health Conference, our team at the Advocacy Network on Disabilities is still buzzing with the energy, ideas, and inspiration we gained from this transformative event. The conference, which promised to reignite passion, reenergize creativity, and reimagine the future of behavioral health care in Florida,… Read More »
